It is with great sadness that Somerset Council announces the passing of Councillor Mike Lewis, Councillor for Castle Cary Division of the Council.

Cllr Lewis was a County Councillor from 2013 until the creation of Somerset Council. He was Chair of both the Audit Committee and Joint Waste Scrutiny Panel, as well as being  a member of several other committees. In addition, he had been a District Councillor of South Somerset District Council for the Camelot Ward since 2002.

A qualified Youth Worker, Cllr Lewis lived in Queen Camel with his wife Pauline and their family.

Chair of Somerset Council, Councillor Mike Best said: “I worked with Mike on both South Somerset District Council and the County Councils. He was a hard-working councillor for his community and always someone that played an active role in Council, we will miss him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”

Conservative Leader David Fothergill commented

‘This is absolutely dreadful news, Mike was a genuinely nice person who gained the respect and trust of colleagues from all political parties. He worked tirelessly for his communities, supported local parish councils, organisations and charities and was seen as a mentor by many. He will be very sadly missed by all who’s lives he touched. My thoughts are with his wife Pauline, their family, and many friends.’

Councillor Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council added:

“Mike was well liked and respected member of Somerset Council (and previously the District and County Councils). A real gentleman, a hard-working councillor for his community and we are deeply shocked and saddened by this news. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Flags in council buildings will be flown at half mast on the day of the next council meeting and on the day of Cllr Lewis’s funeral.