Tributes paid as mayor dies (From Worcester News)

Tributes paid as mayor dies

1:30pm Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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THE mayor of Ledbury has died in hospital this week after losing his battle against cancer.

Tributes have poured in for Councillor Chris Holbourn following his death on Tuesday evening.

The town has been shocked by the sudden death of the 57-year-old in Cheltenham General Hospital.

The married father-of-one lived in Ledbury for more than 40 years and taught at John Masefield High School.

Coun Holbourn only recently stepped down from civic duties because of his brave fight against illness.

Former mayor Councillor Keith Francis said the mayor was “loved, admired and respected” by so many.

“He had a great concern for people in the community and he was always around town talking to people,” said Coun Francis. “We are devastated in Ledbury at this sudden loss. He was very forward thinking and he will be greatly missed.”

Coun Holbourn, who was born in Brecon, was deputy mayor when Coun Francis was Mayor and also represented Eastnor Parish Council.

Councillor Tony Bradford said his daughter was taught by the mayor during his tenure at John Masefield.

He was a very popular teacher, who also taught at the former Haywood School and the Downs College School in Colwall.

“He was a wonderful mayor. He was always in town, greeting tourists and making himself available,” said Coun Bradford. “His attitude was unbelievable. I knew he was battling but he was such a strong character and he just carried on.”

Ledbury Town Council will hold a minute’s silence at this evening’s environment and leisure meeting, while a lasting tribute will be considered. He leaves a wife, Geraldine, and a son.