Agenda item

The Chairman stated that it was with great sadness that the Council had learnt that Councillor Roger Croft had passed away on the 24^th March 2017. He wished to record his and the Council’s sincere condolences to both Roger’s and his wife Zelda’s families. He stated that he was a highly respected colleague and would be sadly missed. The Chairman asked all those present to observe a minute’s silence to remember both Roger and Zelda Croft. 

Councillor Emma Webster commented that the Councillor Croft was a man of action who sought to make a difference for his community who had not realised how much he was loved.

Councillor Alan Macro stated that Councillor Croft had always been very straightforward in all his dealings with him and described him as a very personable man. He also passed on condolences from Councillor Lee Dillon who had worked closely with Councillor Croft at both West Berkshire and Thatcham Town Councils.

Councillor Dominic Boeck commented that he had known the Crofts for 30 years and their families had grown up together. He noted Councillor Croft’s tremendous contribution to the Council and his community.

Councillor Gordon Lundie stated that Councillor Croft would be remembered for his loyalty, wit, creativity and friendship and he was so very sad that he could no longer call on him to discuss matters over a pint of beer. He commented that Councillor Croft had a quick mind and a sound business grasp, both great skills for the Council which had seen him rise rapidly through the ranks. He had been a natural choice as Councillor Lundie’s deputy when he was elected Leader and he had been a great colleague to work with. Since becoming Leader, Councillor Croft had had to oversee difficult choices being made and he had come up with innovative ideas to offset some of the service reductions which would otherwise have to be made. Councillor Lundie commented that Councillor Croft had been blessed with a wonderful wife, children and grandchildren that he loved to spend time with. He stated that Councillor Croft was a skilled Leader, a reluctant Leader of the Council and a good friend.

Councillor Graham Jones stated that over the six years they had worked together at the Council he and Councillor Croft had become very good friends, serving as each other’s Deputy Leader in their time served as Leader of the Council. He had welcomed the ‘business brain’ that Councillor Croft had brought to the Council, which had helped to focus thinking. He stated that he would remember Councillor Croft for his sense of humour, impatience to get things done and his great love of life. He was not a Councillor that was elected to make up numbers but instead wanted to get things done.

The Chairman thanked Vice Chairmen, Councillor Carol Jackson-Doerge and Councillor Jeanette Clifford, for their support over the 2016/17 Municipal Year.

The Chairman then reported that he, the Vice Chairmen and Councillors Edwards and Argyle had attended 178 events over the past year. He commented that representing the Council was a great honour. He thanked the Council for electing him and giving him the opportunity to represent them during the past year.