Sutton Bridge Parish Council members pay tribute to two councillors whose deaths have caused shock and sadness

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to two men who served their community and will be “much missed”.

The sudden death of Cllr David Bruch has caused sadness among his fellow councillors – and was discussed at the January Sutton Bridge Parish Council meeting.

There was also a minute’s silence held for Cllr David Garner, who died at the age of 101.

A parish council spokesman said: “Sutton Bridge Parish Council’s much loved and respected chairman, councillor David Bruch passed away unexpectedly on January 15 2024.

“David was elected to the council on May 6 2021 and became chairman in May 2023.

“He was keenly interested in community and championed the improvement of local facilities and events. He was instrumental in organising the very popular fireworks event last November, making sure it was free for all to attend.

“David volunteered for many other organisations in our community, and he will be much missed. Not only for his considerable organisational skills but also for his enthusiasm and straight-talking. He brought people together, and enabled everyone to join the debate, the council will miss him greatly, not least for his great sense of fun.”

Cllr Chris Brewis, who paid his respects by saying a few words at the meeting, said: “David (Bruch) will be a hard act to follow.

“It was a very difficult meeting and we wish his family all the very best.

“He will be very much missed and Sutton Bridge will realise that.

“In the last nine months he has been pulling things together and I have learnt so much from him – he was always constructive, helpful and useful.”

Cllr Brewis also paid tribute to Cllr David Garner who was involved in LIVES – Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Services, the Bombing Range committee and the car scheme.

He said: “He was nearly 102 and will also be missed enormously.

“The news has all come as a shock.”

*New chairman Mary Middleton was voted into the post with vice chair to be filled by Ann Billings.

*Also at the meeting the precept was set at £86,000 – the amount that residents will pay for parish services for the year.

*Following the resignation of two councillors last year due to personal reasons there will be an election taking place this spring.