Tributes have been paid to South Hams human rights campaigner, Jonathan Cooper OBE, who has died aged 58.
The campaign saw local people pledge their allegiance to the town as it tried to remain in the EU.
Mr Cooper died suddenly on Saturday September 18 while walking in Scotland with his husband Kevin.
The international human rights lawyer at Doughty Street Chambers in London, fought tirelessly to defend the global LGBT+ community against criminalisation and discrimination.
Doughty Street said in an online tribute, their “dear and brilliant colleague” was an “inspiration and life force throughout the bar and globally.”
His “ground-breaking work in challenging discrimination against same sex couples was immense,” the statement said.
Colleague Geoffrey Robertson QC, described Mr Cooper’s “premature” death a “tragedy” and a “profound shock.”
“No one more deserves to be in the Pantheon of LGBT crusaders,” he said.
“His work for the advancement of human rights in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth was increasingly fruitful during his lifetime, and will continue to be so.”
Baroness Helena Kennedy QC, who worked with Mr Cooper said: said “The death of Jonathan is heartbreaking.
“Jonny was a glorious life-enhancer whose ingenuity and compassion led to real and lasting change, especially for the gay community. What a loss to the world.”
Mr Cooper shaped the campaign for a so-called Totnes passport and declared a “city state” to demonstrate their opposition to leaving the EU.
Totnes town councillor described Mr Cooper as a “delightful” character who used his skills in local campaigns.
“He was not only an incredibly influential human rights lawyer but also the most lovely of men,” she said.
Trudy Turrell of the group Don’t Bury Dartington Under Concrete, said on social media: “So very sad and shocked to hear this.
“Such a kind and intelligent man who shared his wisdom selflessly.”