Tributes paid to former Peterborough councillor with passion for helping community

Father of five Zahid Hussain, or Park Crescent, Peterborough, died after contracting COVID 19.

Mr Hussain was a member of the Labour party, and represented Central Ward from 2007 until 2011.

Today cllr Shaz Nawaz, leader of the Peterborough Labour Party, paid tribute to Mr Hussain and said; "He inspired lots of young people to become business owners and entrepreneurs. He had a passion for helping the wider community.

"He’s also a great example of what a hard working person can achieve in England. He could’ve made lots of excuses about he cane to England as a teenager but he didn’t do that. He focussed on all the benefits and advantages he had of being in England.

"He simply never took no for an answer and perseverance was his secret to success.

"My condolences to his family. I know it’s a difficult time for them. He will be sorely missed by many in the wider community."

Zahid arrived in England aged 14, and could barely speak English - but worked hard, and secured a place at Essex Unviserity.

He started out as an accountant and opened his own firm under the name DHC Accountants. Alongside that he had other business interests including a property portfolio.

He then bought a food processing factory in Ireland where he employed around 100 people and opened a sub-branch in Derby.

Peterborough MP Paul Bristow also paid tribute and said: "I am so sad to hear of the loss of my good friend and much respected former councillor Zahid Hussain. He was so kind and supportive to me personally when I was selected as the Conservative candidate for #Peterborough. I will remember his generosity and warmth."

Mr Hussain leaves behind a wife and his five children - the oldest is 24, the youngest just 12.