'A real jolly giant': Tributes continues to pour in for Ashfield Council chairman after coronavirus death

Yesterday, Ashfield District Council announced the passing of Councillor Anthony Brewer from the infection, with politicians from around the district paying tribute to the local politician.

Now, Councillor Kevin Rostance, chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council has added to those paying tribute to the Ashfield Independent member for Skegby.

In a statement, he said: “I am truly devastated by this news. Anthony was a good friend of mine and we shared many an event during our year as chairmen of our respective councils and I know how proud he was to serve his council and his community of Skegby.

“He always had a smile, a real sense of humour and he loved meeting people. He was described by many as a real jolly giant!

“I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

Previously, Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “We are devastated by the death of our chairman. My thoughts go out to his partner Pat, his children, and all the family.

“Anthony fought till the end and will be a great loss to residents in Skegby, the Ashfield District and the Ashfield Independents.

“I have known Anthony for over 10 years and he has become a close family friend as well as a trusted colleague.

“We were so proud when he agreed to chair our council – he offered wise counsel and common sense to the job – our district won’t be the same place without him.”