By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Tributes have been paid to a much-loved former mayor, passionate ex-fireman and “loyal servant” of Coleford.
Former Labour district councillor Paul Kay, who had served the Forest of Dean market town for 25 years, died at the age of 68 on October 19 at Cheltenham General Hospital after a short battle with illness.
Cllr Kay, who was Coleford’s current deputy mayor, was instrumental in establishing the town’s twinning with Saint Hilaire de Riez in 2016.
Coleford Town Council said in a statement online that the twinning “will live on as a testimony of Paul’s dedicated service to our community”.
Mayor Nick Penny said he was “a close friend and a loyal servant of our town”.
“Paul was a committed councillor who dedicated many years of his life to our town and he will certainly leave a large hole in all our hearts. During my term as mayor, Paul has been a trusted supporter for which I am sincerely grateful,” the mayor said.
Cllr Kay was also a regular volunteer in the town’s tourist information centre, supported many town centre events, and worked hard to ensure that the town council works professionally and transparently, the council said.
“Paul’s sons Pete and Robin, their children, and the entire family are very much in our thoughts at this difficult time,” the council said.
“Paul will be deeply missed by us all – both as a dedicated councillor, and for many, a true friend.”
Forest of Dean District Council observed a minute’s silence in his honour at the last full council meeting on October 22.
Chairman Di Martin (L, Cinderford East) said: “It was a very sudden death. It happened recently and was a great shock to many of his ex-colleagues.”
Councillor Alan Preest (R, Lydney East) also paid tribute to him and told the meeting he first met him in 2003 when he joined the council.
“We had opposite views on the political spectrum but I don’t think we ever fell out,” he said.
“He was an extremely passionate, hardworking councillor and particularly [passionate] about Coleford where he served as mayor for a time.
“It was profound sadness to hear about his passing and sincere condolences to family, friends and colleagues and the people of Coleford who he continued to admirably represent as a town councillor.
“Rest in peace Paul.”
Cllr Martin concluded, saying: “Paul was a great colleague.
“He was a member of the Labour group, a passionate member of the fire brigade union and was deputy mayor of Coleford.
“It’s been a great shock to everyone.”
Coleford Town Council is due to pay its respects and observe two minutes’ silence at their first full council meeting since his passing, which takes place tonight (October 27).