RESPECTED former architect and councillor Andrew Borges had died, aged 80.

Mr Borges was born at Braiswick Farm, in Mile End, Colchester, the home he later used to create a woodland haven.

His father, Pop, had managed Braiswick Farm, marrying Ethel Crowe, the daughter of the landlord of the Dog and Pheasant.

Mr Borges continued to patronise the pub during his life, especially on Fridays for a clan gathering over fish and chips.

One of five brothers, he was educated at St Joseph's School, in Ipswich, before qualifying as an architect.

After working for various firms, he set up his own practice and was later joined by Andrew Claiborne. An innovative designer, he practised mostly in the Colchester and had a keen eye for detail and quality.

It was during this period he developed his love of classical music, a passion which endured to the end.

He was also a talented artist and became part of the artistic community, especially the Wivenhoe Arts Club, in the Sixties and Seventies. He developed an interest in history.

After retiring in 1992, he published four books about his family and their home.

In 1980, Mr Borges was elected as a Conservative Colchester councillor and served for 16 years including as chairman of the recreation, tourism and art committee.

He wasakeen sportsman, playing for and supporting Colchester Rugby Club, and serving as president three times. He also played cricket, golf, skied and was an intrepid sailor.

He married three times. Judy Burge in 1958, mother of three of his children, Mary-Anne, Anthony and Carl Peter, another talented artist.

In 1978, he married Maggie Moffat and they had a son, James. Maggie died in 1995.

In 1999, he married Dr Lynne Barnes who survives him. He also leaves four grandchildren.

After his marriage to Lynne, he bought a house in Spain and they spent a large part of the year there, painting, sailing and walking.

It was onawalk home, Mr Borges had a heart attack from which he never recovered.

Former fellow councillor Janet Fulford said: “Andrew was an incomparable host, a hugely generous and loyal friend and, as one of those friends said, just a thoroughly nice man.

“His family was all important to him and his unexpected death has been devastating for everyone who knew him.”

A humanist burial service will be held at Braiswick Farm on September 4.