Tributes paid to Cllr John Hodges
Tributes have been paid to Hastings Borough Council and East Sussex County Council member John Hodges who died last week at the age of 70.
Cllr John Hodges, who had represented the Hastings St Helens and Silverhill division at ESCC since May 2013 and Hastings Old Town ward for the Borough, died on Wednesday 10 January following a short illness.
His work at ESCC included membership of the economy, transport and environment scrutiny committee, in which role he played an active part in promoting the county’s economy. Becky Shaw, East Sussex County Council chief executive, said: “Cllr Hodges was a respected member of the council and someone who was passionate about Hastings and worked hard to represent his constituents.”
Before becoming a Councillor, John Hodges had worked at General Dynamics and had been Chair of the Local Strategic Partnership. He was a champion of the specialist manufacturing industries in the area.
Cllr Dawn Poole, John’s co-councillor in Old Hastings ward, said, “John was a hardworking Councillor whose commitment to Hastings was unquestionable. His socialist principles were at the forefront of everything he did as he sought to make Hastings a place where everyone could have the same opportunities in life. A close family man my thoughts are with Denise and his family who I know will be devastated by his passing.”
Councillor Peter Chowney, leader Hastings Borough Council said: “We were very sad indeed to learn of the death of Councillor John Hodges earlier today, a true friend and colleague. This is the second time within a year that a senior councillor has passed and clearly we are greatly saddened.”
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So sad. John was a respected and trusted councillor who took a great interest in the workings of the Hastings Old Town Residents Association,
(HOTRA) rendering good advice and assistance whenever he could. He will be sorely missed by all members of the committee.
Comment by Bruce Nicol — Saturday, Feb 20, 2016 @ 22:31
We are saddened to hear of John’s death, Denise. No-one cared more about Hastings…………and real ale, in equal quantities. Fond memories.
Comment by Jane and Will Downes from The Drip and The Duke.. — Wednesday, Feb 17, 2016 @ 18:31