Jess Phillips leads tributes following death of 'Labour legend and friend' Zaheer Khan

Tributes are pouring in following the death of an 'inspirational' former councillor Zaheer Khan. The dad-of three, who represented the Small Heath ward, died aged 46 after losing his brave battle with leukaemia.

Condolences were being paid from political colleagues, friends and co-workers on Wednesday to the 'Labour Legend,' who will be 'missed.' Jess Phillips, Labour MP for Yardley, posted on X: "Very saddened today at the loss of my friend Zaheer. Him and his family mean the world to me, so kind and welcoming always. Yardley Labour legend that he was, we will miss him so much."

Deputy leader at Birmingham City Council Sharon Thompson said: "Thoughts are with former council colleague Zaheer Khan family. Saddened to hear he has passed away.

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"He fought a good fight with illness, may he now rest in peace. My thoughts are with his close family and friends at this times.

"I have many memories of being sat in his living room in our days as Yardley CLP officers."

Birmingham Council Leader John Cotton posted: "Sad to hear that former @BhamCityCouncil Cllr Zaheer Khan has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."

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Candice Homles posted on X: "I'm deeply saddened by the loss of my friend Zaheer. His warmth and kindness meant the world to me. As a Yardley Labour legend, his absence will be deeply felt. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."

Bromford and Hodge Hill ward. Cabinet member for Environment Majid Mahmood said: "I’m saddened former @BhamCityCouncil Cllr Haji Zaheer Khan has passed away. A family man with 3 children who spent a lifetime helping in the community and law, a true inspiration.

"May Allah SWT grant Zaheer the highest place in paradise and give his family patience. Ameen."

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Councillor Shabina Bano posted on Facebook: "Deeply saddened and in utter shock to hear the sad news of our dear brother former Councillor of Small Heath Zaheer Khan has left this temporary world. Br Zaheer Khan was a very special person he treated me like his little sister and was always available to offer me support and advice.

"I will always be grateful for all his love & support given to me by him and his family. Brother Zaheer Khan will be deeply missed, and never forgotten."

Current Small Heath councillor Saqib Khan says he owes much to his friend. "It is a great loss. I have known Zaheer for over 20 years, he was a respectable, upstanding pillar of the community. He encouraged young people to come forward into politics, I am one of those who was encouraged by him.

"During my election campaign he immensely and tirelessly campaigned on my behalf, providing me with support, advice and guidance even during his last days. He leaves a young family and a proud legacy. Zaheer will be deeply missed by many of us". The family of Mr Khan will be sitting at Ghamkol Sharif mosque from Wednesday 17th April 1pm.