GRAVESHAM MP Adam Holloway has paid tribute to one of his predecessors who died last week.

Tim Brinton, a former newsreader, was Conservative MP for Gravesham during the Thatcher years between 1975 and 1987.

He died aged 79 on Tuesday, March 24, leaving behind wife Jeanne, a son and three daughters from his first marriage and two daughters from his second.

During his time as MP he drew on his professional background in the media to help establish a scheme for media training at Conservative central office and also chaired the Conservatives’ backbench media committee.

Mr Holloway said: “I spoke to him a lot when I got selected and after I became an MP.

“I would call him up from time to time for advice. He was always very pleasant and supportive and he did a very good job in his 10 years as MP for Gravesham.

“I send my condolences to his wife.”

Mr Holloway added that he was trying to arrange a memorial service for Mr Brinton at Westminster.