THE CHIEF executive of Herefordshire Council has paid tribute to the authority’s chairman, Olwyn Barnett, who has passed away.
Coun Barnett died in her sleep on Thursday, November 6, surrounded by family.
She had been a councillor for the Mortimer ward for 34 years and chairman of the council since 2011.
Coun Barnett was passionate about education and social care and had played a pivotal role in establishing a partnership between the council and NHS Herefordshire.
She was also a founder member of St Michael’s Hospice and in 2012 introduced the Herefordshire Diamond County Awards which recognise local businesses’ contribution towards helping the community.
Alistair Neill, council chief executive, said: “Councillor Barnett was a credit to the council and her ward and will be greatly missed for her tremendous spirit and total commitment to Herefordshire and the council.
“Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends and colleagues at this time.”
