TRIBUTE has been paid to a county councillor who died this week.
Coun John Horner, who represented Arden Division for the Conservatives, died on Tuesday (May 10) aged 70 after a very short illness.
Paying tribute, Warwickshire County Council (WCC) members, officers and leaders expressed their sympathies – describing Coun Horner as ‘a long-standing and well-respected servant to Warwickshire and its residents’.
He was first elected to the County Council in 2013, and also served as a member of Stratford District Council (SDC).
He was the Chair of the County Council’s Pension Fund Investment Sub Committee and an active member of the Staff and Pensions and Audit and Standards Committees, as well as holding the role of Vice Chair of the Council in the past municipal year.
Coun Horner has lived in Claverdon for 18 years and will be remembered fondly as a passionate advocate for his local area.
One of his achievements during his time in office was the creation of the quarterly Arden Parish Clerks and Chairs Meeting – a group which plays a key role in supporting and championing the interests of the local community.
Coun Horner is survived by his wife Lucy, children Christopher, James, Emma, and Simon, his four grandchildren Joshua, Phoebe, Imogen, and Isla – and two more on the way.
WCC leader Coun Izzi Seccombe said: “I am deeply saddened by the sudden death of John who has been a dedicated local Councillor, and a highly valued member of WCC.
“During his time on the Council, John has been a Member of Cabinet, Chair of Scrutiny and his intellect and ability saw him serve for several years on the Warwickshire Staff and Pensions Committee.
“I will personally miss him for his intellect and humour which made him such an important member of the Conservative Group.”
WCC chief executive Monica Fogarty said: “I had the privilege to work with John throughout his time on WCC. He was a fantastic champion for his local community and a great ambassador for local government as a whole.
“John’s intelligence, warmth and passion were a huge asset to this Council, and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”
