TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'passionate' and 'very determined' environmental campaigner following his death.

John Mulhall, who campaigned for the closure of Arpley tip, died last month.

The Sankey Bridges resident, who was believed to be in his 60s, was given special permission to speak at the planning inquiry into FCC Environment's application for the landfill site on behalf of residents.

He also stood as an independent borough council candidate in the Bewsey and Whitecross by-election in 2010.

Mr Mulhall challenged the council and politicians on a range of issues affecting the borough over the years.

Warrington South MP David Mowat has paid tribute to Mr Mulhall.

He said: "I'm saddened to hear of John's death and my thoughts are with those who knew him well at this difficult time.

"He and I had many lively conversations, on end of life care, Arpley and consumer rights issues.

"While I can't pretend we always saw eye to eye, I admired his passion and persistence in pursuing what he thought was right."

Council chief executive Steven Broomhead also met the campaigner numerous times.

He said: "John was a very determined and passionate campaigner around the environmental issues and where at times he was very challenging to the council and other bodies.

"He was respected for the passion he had for his views."

Prior to moving to Sankey Bridges, Mr Mulhall lived in Bewsey and Whitecross for more than 30 years.