Tributes have been paid to a former BBC political editor who died last week aged 85.

John Cole, who lived in Claygate, died in his sleep at home on November 7 after a long illness.

Mr Cole was born in Belfast and was the political editor at the BBC from 1981 to the 1992 General Election when he retired.

Mr Cole defined political reporting while Margaret Thatcher was in power and covered many major stories, including the Brighton bomb and the Westland Affair.

Mr Cole also correctly predicted the downfall of the Iron Lady and won the Royal Television Society’s journalist of the year award in 1991.

He was also commended with Bafta’s Richard Dimbleby award in 1993. Alex Coomes, Claygate councillor, said his family knew Mr Cole during his time living in Claygate, believed to be 25 to 30 years.

Coun Coomes said: “It is very sad but he was a great man. He would never let his own personal views come across in his comments and reports and that stands out for me. He did a job with total integrity and professionalism.

“He was a member of the community for many years and enjoyed his retirement in the village.”

Another Claygate councillor, Geoff Herbert, paid tribute to Mr Cole on Twitter. He said: “Rest in peace John Cole. John had helped in many ways since Madge and he moved to Claygate. Best wishes to Madge and family.”

James Harding, director of BBC News, said: “John was a loved and respected broadcaster, a journalist with his own unforgettable style and a commanding knowledge of his subject. He embodied the qualities of a truly great journalist: integrity, curiosity and character.

“He will, I know, be sorely missed and fondly remembered across the BBC. Our thoughts are with his family.”

Mr Cole is survived by his wife Madge, his four sons, Donald, Patrick, David and Michael, and nine grandchildren.