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Tributes flow in for
councillor who was ‘Mr Coningsby’
Ray Curtis
Representatives from the local political scene have paid emotional tributes to councillor Ray Curtis who died last weekend, at the age of 72.
Coun Curtis had represented Coningsby on East Lindsey District Council since 1987.
He was chairman of ELDC in 2005-06 and celebrated his 25th anniversary ‘in office’ last May.
In a moving tribute to Coun Curtis, Horncastle Mayor Fiona Martin described him as “irreplaceable.”
Coun Martin said: “I started at ELDC on the very same day as Ray.
“I have nothing but respect for him.
“He could be outspoken, but that was only because he felt so deeply about the many things that were important to him.
“He was passionate about Coningsby, In fact, he was ‘Mr Coningsby.’
“I was only talking to him last week at a planning meeting and he seemed fine.
“This has come as a complete shock and my sympathy goes to his family.
“He was an extremely hard-working and loyal person. He is irreplaceable and will be missed as a person - and as a councillor.”
Craig Leyland, deputy leader of ELDC, said he had tremendous respect for Coun Curtis.
Coun Leyland, who represents the neighbouring Woodhall Spa ward, added: “I got to know him quite well and he always spoke his mind.
“He spoke with a passion and knowledge about many local issues and I know he was very proud of the RAF’s association with Coningsby.”
Bill Aron, a Horncastle based county councillor, also said Coun Curtis would be sadly missed.
Doreen Stephenson, leader of ELDC, said: “Councillor Curtis was greatly respected by both councillors and officers, often bringing a challenging and important view to debates.
“In his 25 years on the council, he has undertaken many important roles, including chairman, and more recently. chairman of the Southern Area Committee.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at what must be a very difficult time.”
Coun Curtis was a well-known figure in Coningsby and surrounding villages.
He recently campaigned against the introduction of car parking charges.
His wife, Lorna, was awarded the BEM earlier this year for services to the community.
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Weather for Horncastle
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 5 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 25 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 4 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: North west
