COUNCILLORS from across Worcester’s political divide have paid heartfelt tributes to Coun Simon Cronin who died at the age of 64 following a short illness.
The respected Nunnery councillor passed away last week just days after he was re-elected to his seat with a majority of 330 votes.
Former councillor George Squires delivered Coun Cronin’s acceptance speech in what was a poignant moment on the night.
Simon’s niece, Natalie Cronin, said: “Simon was a greatly respected member of the community, a wonderful friend to many and a dearly loved brother, uncle and great uncle. He will be so sadly missed.”
Devastated Worcester Labour Party chiefs revealed their ‘shock and sadness’ to learn of his passing.
“Simon had represented Nunnery Ward since 2007, serving people there with compassion and dignity. His re-election last Thursday with a sizeable majority stands as testament to his popularity and effectiveness as a local councillor,” the statement read.
“Simon was passionate about his home city, especially its culture and heritage. He represented the city council on the Conservation Advisory Panel and served as chair of the city council’s Licensing Committee.
“He displayed fairness and integrity in all his work as a councillor.
“Simon was also very well respected across the political divide, finding common cause with councillors of other political parties while remaining a proud representative of the Labour Party.”
Among those to echo the tributes was Labour’s prospective parliamentary candidate for Worcester Tom Collins.
“Simon Cronin was an icon of Labour in Nunnery and on Worcester City Council.
“He will be greatly missed by so many of us. Thank you Simon for your years of dedication and fierce solidarity. It was far too soon and we miss you.”
The newly-elected Conservative group leader on Worcester City Council, Coun James Stanley said: “On behalf of the Conservative group I extend our condolences to Simon Cronin’s family.
“Political differences melt into insignificance at a moment like this . Genuinely a good man.”
Worcester’s Green Party paid tribute to Coun Cronin for ‘defending those most in need’ and the Liberal Democrats hailed a ‘kind, likeable and hard working councillor who clearly cared for his residents’
Managing Director of Worcester City Council, David Blake, said: “On behalf of all of the staff at Worcester City Council, I would like to offer our condolences to Simon’s family, friends and loved ones.
“Simon was respected and well-liked by many of the staff who worked with him over the years.
“During an age when politics can get a bit heated, Simon was always the calm voice of reason and his warm and friendly approach will be greatly missed by everyone.
“We would often stop and chat when we bumped into each other on the High Street and it is incredibly sad that Worcester has lost such a kind and dedicated politician.”
