The Jewish chief of staff to London mayor Boris Johnson has died at the age of 49.

Sir Simon Milton, who spent eight years as the leader of Westminster City Council, died yesterday in hospital after a short illness.

Sir Simon, who was knighted for services to local government in 2006, also served as chairman of the Local Government Organisation.

Sir Simon, who in 2007 entered into a civil partnership with his Jewish partner, Conservative councillor Robert Davis, was a member of West London Synagogue.

Mr Johnson praised Sir Simon as "a wonderful colleague and friend [who] will be much missed by everyone who was involved in public life in this city".

Councillor Colin Barrow, leader of Westminster City Council, said Sir Simon was one of the leading Conservative politicians of his generation.

He said: "He led this council with great distinction for eight years and I have always felt honoured to follow him as leader. He he will retain an enduring place in our respect and affection across the city."