TRIBUTES have been paid to a Norley solicitor who died on Sunday.

Quentin Querelle, from Poole Alcock solictors, who had been a lawyer for more than 30 years, was a familiar face at Northwich Magistrates' Court and a one-minute's silence was held at the Chesterway court to mark the 63-year-old's death ahead of usual proceedings on Monday.

Justices clerk for Cheshire Steven Walsh said: "Quentin Querelle was a consummate professional as a defence solicitor. He was highly thought of by all the magistrates in Cheshire, particularly the Vale Royal branch.

"He has practised for many years in the Northwich Magistrates' Court and, before it was shut, the Winsford Magistrates' Court. He had the honour bestowed on him of being made a judge and he sat in this position not in Cheshire but in Wales.

Mr Walsh added: "He will be sadly missed by all the staff at Northwich Magistrates' Court who I know held him in high regard because he carried out his job in such a friendly and helpful fashion."

Son Richard Querelle added: "We wish to thank everyone for their kind words and support."

Funeral arrangements were yet to be confirmed as the Guardian went to press.