Flags are flying at half mast today in remembrance of a Brent councillor’s untimely death.

Cllr Tayo Oladapo sadly died after struggling with ill health for some time.

The 34-year-old, who represented the Kilburn ward since he was elected in 2010, was always keen to improve the lives of his constituents.

He served on various committees including the alcohol and entertainment licensing committee from 2010 to 2013. the children and families overview and scrutiny committee until 2011 and more recently, the scrutiny committee from 2014-15.

Cllr Lesley Jones MBE, mayor of Brent, has led tributes to Cllr Oladapo.

She said: “Tayo was respected and liked across the political spectrum and I offer my deepest sympathy to his friends and family at this difficult time.”

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of the council, added: “Tayo had been struggling with ill health for sometime but the treatment he was receiving appeared to be working earlier in the year which makes this latest news even more tragic.

“He was a man of great integrity and represented the people of Kilburn with great dedication. He will be sorely missed.”

Cllr John Duffy, his fellow Labour Kilburn colleague, said: “He was a really nice, sweet and caring person. It’s a real tragedy. Although he’s been ill for a long time, people are stunned someone so young died.”

Dawn Butler, MP for Brent Central added: “Tayo was a gifted councillor who was always on hand to help. Although suffering from his illness he often struggled on even in pain. He will be missed in the council and I will miss his special hat and infectious laugh’

The council is contacting the family to understand what plans they have for funeral arrangements.”

Once this is understood, the returning officer will consider the most appropriate date for a by-election which will be announced in due course.

The flags were flying at half mast at the council’s headquarters, Brent Civic Centre, in Engineers Way, Wembley.