The Mayor of Southend-on-Sea, Cllr Kevin Robinson has issued a statement following the sad death of Graham Longley, a former leader and Mayor of Southend-on-Sea.
Cllr Kevin Robinson, Mayor of Southend-on-Sea, says: “I was very saddened to hear of Graham's death. He was completely dedicated to the local community and loved our Borough that has now become a City.
“Graham was a long-standing councillor, serving as both leader of the council and mayor and most recently as a cabinet member until 2015. He carried out all these roles with genuine commitment and he was always a passionate advocate for local people in and out of the chamber.
“Graham was a real gentleman and also a dedicated family man, and my thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time.”
The flags at the Civic Centre and Porters will be lowered this morning, and a minute silence will take place at Full Council on Monday.