Tributes paid to Ashfield Council Chairman Anthony Brewer who has died from coronavirus

A statement from the council announced the passing of their beloved chairman who had also been ward councillor for Skegby for the past five years:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce today the passing of Ashfield District Council Chairman, Cllr Anthony Brewer, aged 74, from Coronavirus.

“A member of the Ashfield Independent Party and ward Councillor for Skegby, Cllr Brewer had been Chairman of ADC since May 2019.

“Cllr Brewer had a passion for helping people, he wore his heart on his sleeve and nothing was ever too much trouble ensuring that the voices of the people of Skegby and Ashfield were heard.

“He served as a volunteer at the Welcome Treatment Centre at King’s Mill Hospital for many years.

“He served refreshments to patients whilst they were receiving their treatment for cancer, a cause which was very close to his heart.”

Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council led the tributes.

He 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.

“He hated any conflict in politics as he rightly believed that we should put our community first.

“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.”

County Councillor Helen-Ann Smith who worked closely with Councillor Brewer as County Councillor for Skegby said; “When times goes by, we will reflect on what a huge contribution that Anthony made to Skegby and the wider District.

“What stood out about him was his support for the underdog.

“He worked with hundreds of local residents to ensure they had a voice – this is a sad, sad day.”

Anthony’s ward colleague, Councillor Melanie Darrington said; “I am obviously devastated by this news.

“From the first time I met Anthony, it was clear how much he loved Skegby.

“It wasn’t just somewhere he lived, it was his community. He cared passionately about improving the lives of our neighbours and residents and making Skegby as good as it can be. Anthony wasn’t just my fellow ward councillor - he was a trusted friend.

“He adored his family, cherishing every moment he spent with them. He loved our NHS and his time spent volunteering at Kings Mill was something he was immensely proud of. His support for the Armed Forces and Gingerbread Charity also shaped who he was.

“This virus has robbed us of a trusted colleague and true friend.

“It does not discriminate, please stay in and help Tony’s beloved NHS.”