The County Council has announced with great sadness that Councillor Roger Wilson has died, following a period of illness.

Roger was first elected in May 2013 to the county council division of Winchcombe and Woodmancote and was appointed cabinet member for Adult Social Care Commissioning in May 2017. As well as his Cabinet Member role, Roger had been Chair of the county’s Health and Wellbeing Board since June 2017.

Roger fulfilled a number of other positions during his time as an elected member, including Chair of Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Panel (July 2015 to May 2017) and a member of the Health and Care Scrutiny Committee from May 2013, becoming Vice-chair of the committee in July 2015 until May 2017.

Before becoming a councillor, Roger enjoyed a successful career in accountancy and held a range of senior roles including Finance Director and Company Secretary. He had recently taken over as the Bournville Village Trust Chair of Trustees. Roger also worked as a wine importer and had a farm.

Mark Hawthorne, Leader of the council said: “Caring was at the heart of everything Roger Wilson did, as a councillor, and as a human being. He was so enthusiastic about social care, because for him, caring for older and for vulnerable people was absolutely at the heart of what this council is about. I was proud to have him on my team, proud of the intellect and the rigour he brought, proud of his passion.

“Roger’s work leaves a bright legacy for the future in Gloucestershire – ensuring we continue to put the most vulnerable first. I hope this proud record, and the great sadness so many feel at his passing, is some small condolence to his family and friends at this difficult time. We will all miss him very much indeed. As a mark of respect to Roger we have lowered the flag at Shire Hall today.”

Lesley Williams, Leader of the Labour Group said: “Roger was a true friend, who I will sorely miss. I have known Roger for many years and during that time I have really seen his many qualities shine through; making a real difference for individuals and communities across the county. My thoughts and those of my group are with Roger and his family at this most difficult of times.“

Paul Hodgkinson, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group said: “‘Roger is the second councillor we have lost this year. What an immensely sad time for his family and friends. It was only a few months ago that he was speaking with passion in the council chamber - it is sobering for all of us and puts many things into perspective.”

Rachel Smith, Leader of the Green Group said: “It is such sad news. Roger was a valued member of the council and of the wider Gloucestershire community. He will be truly missed. Our condolences go out to Roger’s family and friends.”

Margaret Willcox, director of adults services said: “It was a pleasure to have worked with Roger for the past six years. Roger was always a champion for adult services, making sure everything possible was done to support and protect some of the most vulnerable people in our county. He really cared about people and that meant he was respected and treasured by our partners and colleagues.”