Jeremy Clegg was described by colleagues as 'a true gentleman'.

He had been with Peak Rail for 15 years.

Colleague and joint managing director Jackie Statham said the heritage rail station had been transformed under his guidance.

She added: "He was a true gentleman in every way. His sudden death has hit us very hard.

"He cared a lot about other people and had always got a sympathetic ear for everybody.

"He will be greatly missed by all of us here. We are all devasted."

The last project Mr Clegg was involved in was the development of a new engine shed at Rowsley .

It was also his ambition to get Peak Rail into Matlock Station.

Matlock town council held a minute's silence at its meeting on Monday as a mark of resepect for the former mayor.

Mr Clegg was councillor for St Giles' ward and became mayor in 1993.

Deputy mayor Geoff Stevens said: "He contributed to the town very strongly and always made his views absolutely clear.

"He was a very good town councillor and a person that had his serious side but also could bring humour in to debates."

Mr Clegg leaves a widow Jane-Claire, children Angela and Adam and grandchildren Daniel, Timothy, Daisy and Martha.