Stroud’s politicians have paid their respects to Tessa Jowell, a former Labour minister best known for championing the UK’s Olympic bid, after she died over the weekend.

“I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of my friend Tessa Jowell,” said Stroud MP David Drew in a statement.

“She gave help and encouragement to all new MPs, including me when I entered the House of Commons in 1997.

“She also loved the Cotswolds where, in recent years, I bumped into her several times.”

Lady Jowell, who died on Saturday at age 70, was diagnosed with brain cancer last year.

She recently received a standing ovation in Parliament for an emotional speech on the disease.

The Prime Minister has announced the Government will double investment for research into tackling brain cancer as tribute.

Stonehouse county councillor Lesley Williams also paid her respects by saying: “Such sad news that Tessa Jowell has died"

“She was inspirational and her total commitment to Children and Families with Sure Start was unstinting."