A regional daily is mourning the loss of its serving political editor who has died aged 50 nine months after being diagnosed with cancer.

Tributes from across the political spectrum have been paid to Peter Madeley, pictured, of the Wolverhampton Express & Star.

Colleagues have remembered a “kind, supportive and extremely funny” journalist while political heavyweights including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson have also expressed their condolences.

Peter’s death was confirmed last night by Express & Star editor-in-chief Martin Wright in a post on X.

Said Martin: “The number of tributes already paid to our political editor Peter Madeley is testament to the impact he had during his time as a journalist.

“He was a fearless reporter and a brilliant writer – but an even better person. A privilege to work alongside him. Thoughts with his family.”

Mr Johnson, who briefly worked at the Express & Star as a young reporter in 1988, said: “I am so sad to hear of the loss of Pete Madeley.”

“He was an outstanding journalist who evidently loved his job and his beat. I know that he put up a long and valiant fight against his illness and my thoughts are with his family and loved ones today.”

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said; “The news of Pete’s passing is incredibly sad. A skilled reporter who held politicians to account with professionalism and personality, he was always a tireless champion of the Black Country.

“On behalf of the Labour Party, I want to share my deepest condolences to his wife and children at this difficult time.”

Peter, who grew up in Dudley, was a latecomer to the world of journalism, having initially gone into teaching.

But at the age of 39 he decided on a career change and took a journalism course at City of Wolverhampton College befoire joining the Wolverhampton Chroncile as a reporter.

Seven months later he was given a full-time reporting position on the Express & Star, afterwards becoming education reporter.

He took on the role of political editor in 2016 and since then has covered the Brexit referendum, the 2017 and 2019 general elections, the coronavirus outbreak, and the war in Ukraine.

Peter’s obituary in today’s E&S read:  “During his time in post he won the respect of all the big beasts of the political jungle, who appreciated his sharp wit and unquestionable impartiality.

“His dry sense of humour and disarming personality proved invaluable in winning the trust of major political figures, who readily shared their inner thoughts with him.”

The newspaper’s former editor Keith Harrison also joined the tributes in a post on X.

Wrote Keith:  “So sad to hear that Express and Star Political Editor Pete Madeley has passed away. One of the very best journalists I’ve ever worked with, a consummate professional and an all-round great guy. RIP, Pete.”

West Midlands mayor Andy Street said:  “Pete was a tenacious & feared journalist, and a master at holding those in power to account. But more importantly he was a thoroughly good man, who I was proud to work with.”

“The region has lost one of our best, and my thoughts are with his wife and children.”

Dudley South MP Mike Wood MP said: “Extremely sad to hear that Express and Star political editor Pete Madeley has passed away.

“A very talented journalist and thoroughly decent guy who has been taken much much too soon. Prayers with his family, friends and colleagues. RIP”

Former Express & Star journalist Alex Ross, who was also launch editor of Bristol World, added: “Pete Madeley was a brilliant and highly respected journalist in the Express & Star newsroom.

“Also kind, supportive and extremely funny – the best colleague you could ask to work alongside. So many wonderful memories in and out of the office.”

Councillor Stephen Simkins, leader of City of Wolverhampton Council, also paid tribute at a full meeting of the authority on Wednesday evening.

He said: “He was a good reporter for this city, and he really did contribute to this city. I will remember him fondly on the terraces of Bilston Town FC.”

Outside of work, Peter was an Aston Villa season-ticket holder and a big supporter of the Black Country non-league football scene.

A devoted father to Thalia, 19 and Elias, 15 and husband to Marina, Peter also leaves parents John and Patricia and sister Liz.