Councillor Tom Burns

A community group who worked closely with a Preston councillor who died on Wednesday have paid tribute.

Fishwick councillor Tom Burns passed away this week leaving a hole in Preston’s local political scene.

Advertisements

Councillors have paid tributes and a group who worked with Mr Burns as a local member have also issued a statement following his death.

John Rochford, chairman of the Friends of Fishwick and St Matthews group, said he was a “warm, gentle and considerate man.”

He said: “Tom Burns was one of the great supporters of Friends of Fishwick and St Matthew’s, ever since we formed as a group. He was a gentle, kind and generous man, keen to get involved and spend time with residents.

“He came and helped with our community garden as often as he was able to. He got involved with organising community fun days, from organising donations, setting up, being present and helping with the fundraising.

“Tom wanted to make a difference in the community and make sure local people had access to leisure and culture facilities in the area; he often helped with the free minibus to Brockholes nature reserve.

“Fishwick has lost a genuine supporter with a genuine desire to support local people. Tom was a warm, gentle and considerate man. He was more than a councillor, he was a true friend of our group and will be sadly missed by residents in Fishwick. Our thoughts go to his friends and family at this very sad time.”

A statement issued on behalf of Preston City Council said: ““Councillor Tom Burns, Cabinet Member for Advice Service, Culture and Leisure has sadly passed away. Councillor Burns served on Preston City Council from 2010 and also previously served as a Councillor and Cabinet Member with Lancashire County Council from 2005 to 2009. Our thoughts and condolences are with Tom’s family and friends at this time.”