Tributes are being paid to Jersey's longest-serving politician, Constable Len Norman, following his death.

Flags are flying at half-mast in Jersey in honour of the Home Affairs Minister, who died on Tuesday (1 June) at the age of 73.

Constable Norman had been a States Member for 37 years, serving as Deputy of St Clement and Senator, as well as Father of the parish.

He was first elected deputy in 1983. In 1996, he stood on an island-wide mandate and spent 12 years as senator, becoming Constable in 2008.

Under the previous committee system of government, he headed up Education, Housing, Social Security and Harbours and Airport.  He was also Chairman of Privileges of Procedures.

The Chief Minister, Senator John Le Fondre has called him 'a true Jersey statesman':

I am very saddened by the passing of Connétable Len Norman who devoted his life to local politics & his beloved Parish. He swayed many a debate with his forthright, but perceptive and good humoured style. Today Jersey has lost a true statesman. My thoughts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/peNrc1Wy6p

— John Le Fondre (@John_Le_Fondre) June 1, 2021

"It is with great personal sadness that I must announce the death of our friend and colleague [...]"

Read the full statement by the Chief Minister on the death of Connétable Len Norman, Minister for Home Affairs: https://t.co/TR099Im8XG pic.twitter.com/vd3CuLVgxn

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) June 1, 2021

Deputy Chief Minister Senator Lyndon Farnham has called Constable Norman a 'formidable political force': 

It fills me with sadness and sense of loss to learn of the passing of Len Norman. Len was a true friend a loyal colleague and a formidable political force when it was required. Elected in 1983 Len gave almost 40 years of continuous & selfless service to Jersey. Rest in peace Len pic.twitter.com/BdmhNUhy0E

— Sen. Lyndon Farnham (@lyndonfarnham) June 1, 2021

Jersey Police Chief Robin Smith says the force has lost one of its 'most loyal and determined supporters' in the Home Affairs Minister, while the Honorary Police and Jersey Police Authority have also paid tribute:

Our deepest condolences on behalf of us all at @JerseyPolice. We have lost one of our most loyal and determined supporters today. We will miss you, your kindest and your good humour. RIP Connètable Norman.

— Robin Smith (@ChiefJersey) June 1, 2021

Sad to hear of the passing of #St_Clement Constable and Home Affairs Minister, Constable Len Norman. He was a great supporter of the @Honorary_Police and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/3szj2SrUCd

— Honorary Police (@Honorary_Police) June 2, 2021

We are incredibly sad to learn of the passing of our Minister for Home Affairs Connetable Len Norman. Len has always been incredibly supportive of our work as a Police Authority and passionate about his role in supporting our emergency services on Island. We miss him already https://t.co/Rm6XUubCCf

— Jsy Police Authority (@Jsy_Police_Auth) June 1, 2021

Attorney General Mark Temple QC worked alongside Constable Norman in his role as Home Affairs Minister.

"The Law Officers were very saddened to learn of the passing of Len Norman. Over many years he was a model of public service and devotion to Jersey’s wellbeing.

"He will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his family."

St Clement Deputy Lindsay Ash has called him a 'great Connetable' , while many other States Members have spoken of his style of politics:

Totally shocked by the news that Len Norman has passed away ..I only got to really know him when I became a Deputy of St Clement ..a great Connetable ,who I always addressed as Sir Len...loved him for his support of a PROPER football team ..Len I am sure the chimes are ringing 😇

— LINDSAY ASH (@Getonthelash2) June 1, 2021

I was so sad to hear about the death of Len Norman today. He approached everyone with equal respect & good humour whether politically aligned or not - & he had a fantastic knack for swooping in at the end of a debate with a salient point no-one had considered! He will be missed.

— Louise Doublet (@LouDoublet) June 1, 2021

So sad we've lost Constable Len Norman; "No one messes with old Len" he once told me. No one would dare. His advice, kindness, generosity and support meant the world. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.. pic.twitter.com/rMbTCHueOm

— Russell Labey (@RussellLabey) June 1, 2021

Len Norman's passing is just so sad. He served Jersey and his parish with selflessness and distinction. I will miss our conversations in the tea room during assemblies. I feel for all Len's family and friends and my thoughts are with them.

— Kirsten Morel (@KirstenJersey) June 1, 2021

Constable Norman has many interests outside of his political role. He was  President of the Jersey Friends of Anthony Nolan and the St Clement Battle of Flowers Association, as well as Patron of St Clement Sports Club. He also a member of Portsmouth FC's Jersey Supporters Club and the Royal Jersey Golf Club.

A very sad day 😥

Connètable Len Norman was a most loyal & determined supporter of youth work especially Le Squez YC having been chairman of the committee for many years & as President of Education

Len - thank you for your support over many years. RIP Connètable Len Norman pic.twitter.com/BByO0hQf8o

— Jersey Youth Service (@JsyYouthService) June 1, 2021

It is with great sadness that this evening we have learned of the passing of our Constable, Mr Len Norman.

Len was a great supporter (and Patron) of our Sports Club and we recently met with Len to discuss our exciting plans of which he was very (1/2) https://t.co/e8WOSowkkC

— St Clement FC (@StClementsFC) June 1, 2021

The business community has also paid its respects. 

Jersey Chamber is very saddened to hear of the death of Len Norman. A great political father of the States Assembly a constant engager with the Jersey business community and great servant to the island.

— Jersey Chamber (@jerseychamber) June 1, 2021