TAUNTON Deane MP Rebecca Pow has paid a moving tribute to her late husband, Charles Clark, who died on Friday.

She described him as ‘the greatest man I know’, praising his ‘wisdom, intellect and quick wit’.

Ms Pow also highlighted her husband’s skills as an auctioneer, tireless fundraiser and as chairman of Somerset County Cricket Club, where the couple supported the team.

She described Mr Clark as a wonderful husband and father and spoke of his ‘common touch’.

Ms Pow said: “He was truly the greatest man I know, filled with the gifts of wisdom, intellect and quick wit.

“He had a phenomenal talent for making a speech as well as being a masterly and entertaining auctioneer fundraiser – he raised more than £2 million for a huge range of charities during his life.

“And he’s been a remarkably effective and hands-on chairman of Somerset County Cricket Club –his dream job – overseeing the introduction of the lights and Somerset’s first trophy in 14 years.

“His work ethic for Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH) has been remarkable.

“And he has lived and breathed Somerset all his life – he was a seventh generation Somerset agricultural auctioneer.

“Most crucially, Charles has been a wonderful husband to me and father to our three children.

“He was also blessed with that special thing – the common touch, treating everybody equally and making each feel special.”

Mr Clark had been battling cancer for some time.