FORMER Lord Mayor of Bradford, Paul Hockney, died yesterday morning.

Aged 88, Mr Hockney was an influential player in Bradford’s civic and political life during the 1970s and 80s.

He was Lord Mayor during the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977 but also held a position as leader of the Liberal Group - the Liberal Alliance as it became - on Bradford Council.

Mr Hockney shared 62 years of marriage with his wife, Jean Hockney, and spent his final months at Glen Rosa nursing home, Ilkley, where she is also a resident.

He has been described as a family-man by those who know him and is one of five siblings - three brothers and a sister.

One of those brothers is well-known Bradford artist, David Hockney.

Mr Hockney also has four children with a total of eight grandchildren.

His son, Nick Hockney said: "Dad was deeply proud to represent the city and people of Bradford. Firstly as a local councillor for Idle, Thackley and Greengates , then as the Lord Mayor during Jubilee year."

He added: "He made the mayoralty fun and worked hard to connect to all within Bradford's multicultural community. The Nell Bank Centre in Ilkley was the result of his Mayoral appeal and still serves the community today.

"As his kids, Jan, Lisa, Simon and myself, Dad was an inspiration to us all. A great father, husband, politician and local preacher, he gave lots of his time to help others. He touched the hearts of all who met him. He gave us a wonderful and stable childhood of fun, laughter and guidance, that never stopped.

"He was a little big man, we have always been immensely proud to call him dad."

Tributes have come in from across the community and on social media.

Grandson, Richard Hockney, 25, who currently lives in Lesvos, Greece, said on a post on Facebook yesterday: “Sadly today, my dear old Grandpa peacefully passed away. My Grandpa was an incredible man, who lived an incredible life, 88 years.

“My grandpa taught me a lot in life, he taught me humour, he was such a funny man, always the joker in the room, always with a little magic trick or something to impress us. He taught me how important family was, and how important it was to love.”

Lauren Hockney, 22, granddaughter of Paul, posted a tribute that was equally filled with admiration.

She said: “With a heavy heart, I say goodbye to my grandpa who sadly passed away this morning. He was a man of many talents, many stories and most of all - so much love. Constantly making jokes and bringing laughter to all around him even at the age of 88.

“From being the Lord Mayor of Bradford to being a grandpa to me and my cousins, he touched the lives of many.”

Cllr Jeanette Sunderland (Lib Dem, Idle & Thackley) knew Mr Hockney and one of his sons, Nick Hockney, who was part of her Scout group.

She said: “Paul was a characterful person - a committed liberal and methodist.

“He will be remembered with a great deal of affection."

Council Leader, Susan Hinchcliffe (Lab, Windhill and Wrose), said: “I’m very saddened to hear of Paul Hockney’s passing. He contributed greatly to civic life in the district.”

Mr Hockney retired from the council in May 1984.

He also lectured at Bradford Technical College between 1963 and 1966.

Mr N Hockney said: "The family would like to thank the incredible staff of Glen Rosa for their love and care of both mum and dad. They have been truly exceptional."