Tribute to 'compassionate' former council leader

A former leader of Telford & Wrekin Council has died, it has been announced.

Former Labour councillor Keith Austin was made an Honorary Alderman of the borough in May 2022 after many years of service.

He was first elected to Wrekin District Council in 1981 and went on to represent the Hadley and Leegomery Ward on Telford & Wrekin Council for more than 30 years.

Current council leader councillor Lee Carter said Austin was a "kind, compassionate and principled man".

"Keith was awarded the title of Honorary Alderman in May 2022 in recognition of his outstanding commitment and long service to the borough," Carter said.

"This is the highest honour a council can bestow upon a former councillor and is reserved for those who have demonstrated truly exceptional service."

During his time as a ward member, he served on numerous boards and committees and held the position of leader of the council from 2004 to 2007.

Carter said Austin was a former magistrate and chair of the fire authority regional management board. He served on the combined fire authority for Shropshire and Telford for over 25 years.

"His dedication to promoting fairness and equality was evident through his work with the Race Equality Council for Telford and Shropshire, and he held a portfolio position within the West Midlands Regional Assembly," he added.

Austin dedicated more than three decades to public service and to supporting his community and "his dedication, kindness and integrity will be remembered by all who knew him".

As a mark of respect and in tribute his service, a minute's silence will be held at the next full council meeting in May, and flags in Southwater Square will be lowered to half-mast on the day of his funeral, which will be confirmed soon.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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