Councillor Roger Redfern.
Councillor Redfern, who represented the Swadlincote South division on the county council, died on Wednesday (21 June) aged 61 years old.
Councillor Lewis today paid tribute to Councillor Redfern, a popular publican who had previously worked in coal mines.
Councillor Lewis said:
“We are greatly saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague.
“Roger was a dedicated councillor and campaigner in his local community with huge personal support as a popular local publican alongside his wife Bev.
“On a personal level, when I first met Roger just a few short years ago I was taken by his tremendously personable nature, his keenness to get involved and do the best by his community and colleagues.
“Even during his illness he kept in touch with what was going on and whenever he was well enough, he was keen to be involved and keep representing the community that was so important to him.”
“Roger’s family was core to his being as well, and we know that his passing is a huge loss to them and to many in his local community. Our thoughts are with them. Roger’s passing will leave a big hole and he’ll be sorely missed.”
Councillor Redfern, who was the landlord of the Miners Arms in Church Gresley for more than 30 years, sat on our Improvement and Scrutiny Committee (Places), and the Improvement and Scrutiny Committee for Climate Change, Biodiversity and Carbon Reduction. He was also our representative on the National Coal Mining Museum for England Liaison Committee.
Councillor Redfern leaves his wife Bev and two children and was a grandfather.
The flag at County Hall, Matlock, will be flown at half-mast until the day of Councillor Redfern’s funeral on a date to be set.