A regional daily’s former classical music critic has died aged 74.

Tributes have been paid to Roger Jones, left, who wrote on arts for the Gloucestershire Echo for a number of years.

Roger, the brother of Cheltenham’s former MP Nigel, now Lord Jones of Cheltenham, was well-known in the Gloucestershire town.

He was an active member of the Civic Society and served on the Cheltenham Music Festival Committee.

Former Echo editor Anita Syvret said: “The Echo needed a classical music critic back in the 1990s and Roger Jones volunteered.

“He was a breath of fresh air – ever enthusiastic and supremely knowledgeable. He gladly reviewed performances by local musicians and visiting professionals with equal zeal and afforded them the same time, respect and appreciation.

“Ever a gentleman and a delightful companion, we were proud to have him as an Echo ambassador.

“He enriched our coverage in a way which few others were able to do.”