Cllr Tom Smith-Hughes, Lib Dem Group Leader, Essex County Council

Brentwood & Ongar Liberal Democrats were deeply sad to hear that Cllr Tom Smith-Hughes, Leader of the Lib Dem group on Essex County Council had passed away this morning after a long illness.

Tom was a real gentleman who had served his community with pride over many years and will be missed by all his friends and colleagues in the Liberal Democrats but especially by his colleagues in Chelmsford, who issued this statement today:

"Chelmsford Liberal Democrats are deeply saddened to announce the death of Cllr Tom Smith-Hughes, after a long and brave battle against cancer.

"Tom was County Councillor for Chelmsford North for 27 years; Chelmsford Councillor for Patching Hall for 17 years; Lib Dem leader at County Hall and on the Fire Authority, and a member of the Lib Dems' Essex, Chelmsford and local branch executives. He held many community positions including school governor posts.

"Commented Cllr Mike Mackrory (Deputy Lib Dem Leader Essex CC), "We are devastated by this news. Tom was a pillar of strength to the Lib Dems and indeed the whole community in Chelmsford. He was highly respected by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts are with Jill and the family at this deeply sad time."

"Chelmsford Council Lib Dem Leader Chris Rycroft added, "We will all miss Tom deeply. He was a huge asset to our Group and the wider Council. Few people understood local government finances like Tom and it meant he was listened to across the council."

"Cllr. Stephen Robinson, his ward colleague in Patching Hall, added, "Tom was a friend to me and countless other people locally. He helped many hundreds of people across north Chelmsford and further afield over many years, and campaigned tirelessly for our community, on housing, transport and many other issues."