Tributes paid to former Manchester Pride boss John Stewart following his death aged 49

Tributes have been paid to former Manchester Pride chief executive John Stewart following his death.

Mr Stewart, who had been diagnosed with cancer, died on Saturday aged 49. He joined Pride, the LGBTQ+ charity that organises the annual Pride festival, in January 2012, but stepped down 22 months later.

During his time in the role he oversaw the Supersonic event at Manchester Airport's Concorde Hangar and the introduction of the new dance arena at the Big Weekend.

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Manchester Pride CEO Mark Fletcher said: "It is incredibly sad to hear of John’s passing. He was an important part of the history of Manchester Pride and it was a pleasure working with him while he was with the charity. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Born in Kilmarnock in Scotland, Mr Stewart studied church history and politics at Aberdeen University, where he met his future husband, Neil Fletcher in 1992. When civil partnerships became law in 2005 they became one of the first couples in Scotland to have a wedding.

Mr Fletcher said: "John lived a full and good life. I am honoured that he chose me as his life partner."

After graduating Mr Stewart entered politics, volunteering for Sir Robert Smith's campaign in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine in the 1997 general election. He went on to become Sir Robert's election agent in successful campaigns in 2001 and 2005. Mr Stewart was elected as Liberal Democrat councillor in Aberdeen in 2003 and went on to become leader of the city council.

After stepping down from the council Mr Stewart and Mr Fletcher