Tributes paid to councillor who died this week

Lee Probert, a Labour member who was councillor for the Yeoman Hill ward, passed away on Monday morning after a short illness.

She won her seat during last year’s elections.

Mayor of Mansfield Kate Allsop said: “I am so saddened by the loss of Lee, she has been an excellent ward councillor and she was warm and genuine.

“Lee cared greatly for her community and always worked hard to ensure she helped those who came to her.

“But she did so much more than just respond; she was proactively involved with many projects and everything she did was with a smile and a friendly chat.

“I will miss her greatly and my condolences are with her family friends and colleagues.”

Coun Probert was elected as ward member for the Yeoman Hill Ward in May 2015 and was an active member of the Labour group.

Leader, Councillor Sonya Ward, said: “Lee was in office for just over a year. However in that time she made a real impact.

“She was dedicated to her residents and passionate about improving her ward.

“Soon after being elected, she organised a successful fundraising Memory Walk for the Alzheimer’s Society, and she planned to make this an annual event. She was also an active volunteer for the Samaritans, Mansfield Soup Kitchen and other causes.

“Lee felt passionately about improving services for people with mental health problems, and pioneered the Mental Health Champion role at Mansfield District Council.

“Her commitment to the community was appreciated by her district and county council colleagues, alike.

“People’s lives were enriched by having Lee in them. We will remember her fondly for her beaming smile, her warmth, sense of humour and her tenacity, and she will be very much missed.”

Chief executive of Mansfield District Council, Bev Smith, added: “Coun Probert approached her role with enthusiasm, passion and commitment to make a difference within her community.

“She was the first member become a mental health champion, promoting a wider understanding of the impact that mental health has on individuals.”