TRIBUTES have been paid to Malvern Town councillor Nick Houghton who passed away suddenly last week aged 59.
Mr Houghton died last Tuesday (December 10) and with the support of his family, the town council have shared their admiration for him and his efforts in years of civic duty.
Coun Houghton, who served as mayor of Malvern for two years, has been described by colleagues as ‘warm, caring and good fun’.
First elected as a town councillor in May 2019, Coun Houghton went on to become mayor of Malvern for two years from May 2021 to May 2023.
During his time as mayor, Nick Houghton gave many hours of his time to attend local events, support the ongoing work of the Town Council and to raise monies for his chosen charities – The Outreach Project, What Makes you Different Makes You Beautiful, and Guide Dogs.
With the support of the Local Guide Dog Volunteers and town council staff, Nick raised an ‘incredible’ amount of £13,000 to sponsor two guide dog puppies in 2023, Nessa and Elgar.
This is the largest amount any Malvern mayor has raised during their time which was seen as a ‘credit to the enthusiasm, dedication and support’ Nick put into the fundraising efforts.
A huge lover of dogs, the councillor was also known for his dedication to supporting council events and projects and was a key member of the organising committee at Malvern Pride.
The ‘energetic, dynamic, hardworking, passionate, supportive’ man was also a ‘major driving force’ in getting the new Community Hub built at Victoria Park.
Malvern Town Council clerk, Linda Blake, said: “His enthusiasm, diligence, and energy were key in helping to navigate some of the more difficult parts of this project and his unwavering support and backing was always appreciated by those most involved.
“Those who work for the Town Council remember Nick as being a great supporter of all staff, full of encouragement, and for always giving full recognition of the work that was being done.
“He was one of the first to volunteer to help at Town Council run events and was never too busy to have a quick chat and to listen and reassure when needed.
“Staff remember him for his warmth, for being good fun and for being caring.
“His contributions to the Town Council and to Malvern have been extensive and he will be much missed.”
The clerk added he will be remembered for realising his vision for a Malvern sign in Rose Bank Gardens, which despite being met with objection for fear it would not be in-keeping, would go on to become a popular photo spot for residents and visitors alike.
And for never being afraid to ‘stand up for what he believed was right and fair and for defending people’s right to voice their opinion.’
