Tributes have been paid to a long-serving councillor who has passed away.

Nick Turner, who served on Tendring District Council and Frinton and Walton Town Council for more than 25 years - including terms as chairman and mayor on those authorities - died on Thursday, 20 March, aged 77.

As a mark of respect the flag at Clacton Town Hall is flying at half mast.

First elected to Tendring District Council in May 1999, representing Frinton, he served on the Cabinet between 2010 and 2017, holding portfolios for services including parking, environment and coast protection – and as Deputy Leader of the Council in 2014-15. At Frinton and Walton Town Council he also represented the Frinton ward.

Passionate about the Walton Backwaters and coastal protection, Councillor Turner was a dedicated member of the Naze Management Board. During his time on Tendring District Council’s Cabinet he oversaw a number of initiatives, including the £36million coastal defence scheme along Holland-on-Sea and the development of a new sea wall at the Naze.

Councillor Dan Casey, Chairman of Tendring District Council, said: “Nick was a dedicated member of this council and, though we sat on opposite sides of the chamber I always respected his commitment, passion and knowledge. His passing is a loss to all who knew him, and our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.”

Councillor Mark Stephenson, Tendring District Council Leader, added: “Nick was an immensely colourful character and a stalwart of the council. His confident and knowledgeable contributions - delivered with his trademark gusto - were something to behold. My condolences go to all who knew him.”

Ian Davidson, Tendring District Council Chief Executive, said: “Our thoughts are with Nick’s wife and family at this difficult time. I was able to speak to Nick this week and thank him for all of his work for the district, including his prominent role in coastal defence work projects at both the Naze, and along Holland-on-Sea.”

Councillor Paul Honeywood, Leader of the Conservative Group - on which Councillor Turner sat until he became non-aligned in 2023 year - added: “Nick always took it upon himself to research topics relevant to his constituents and our local area, and I shall miss seeing him light up as he shared his findings and wealth of knowledge with fellow councillors and officers as he sought to best represent Tendring. Our deepest condolences go to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

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