Tributes paid to former Mayor

Tributes have been paid to a former Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth and long-serving Bagworth councillor who has died at the age of 92.

Councillor Jeff Chantrell, who lived in Thornton, served as a Labour councillor for Bagworth ward for 17 years from 1974 to 1991 and was Mayor of Hinckley & Bosworth twice, from 1977-1978 and again from 1987 to 1988. 

Councillor Chantrell was keenly involved in town twinning, particularly the town’s link with Herford, not only whilst Mayor but also in recent years. He was also a former Bagworth Parish Councillor.

Borough Councillor for Markfield, Stanton and Field Head Andy Furlong paid tribute to the former Mayor. He said: "I first encountered Jeff when I moved to the borough over thirty years ago. He was a decent man who both cared for and understood the community he represented. He supported my parliamentary campaigns in 1997 and 2001 introducing me to many people in Thornton and Bagworth, it was clear from the outset that he was well-regarded and he gave me some sound advice. The Labour party in Bosworth is grateful for Jeff's public service and sends its condolences to his family."

Deputy Leader of the Council, David Bill served alongside Councillor Chantrell in the 1970s and 1980s.  He added: “Jeff was a founder member of the Borough Council. He was a calming and steadying influence at a time of great turmoil following the bringing together of the old urban and rural areas. He was well respected by everyone.  My condolences to his family.”