HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to an Evesham councillor who ‘cared passionately about his local community’.
Coun Reg Jakeman, a member of Evesham Town Council and Wychavon District Council, died suddenly on Saturday (November 15) at the age of 76.
The respected councillor leaves behind his wife Coun Lynne Jakeman, son Chris and daughters Carolyn and Linda.
Coun Jakeman was first elected to Evesham Town Council in 2007 in the South ward and served on the Market Steering Group, Planning and General Purposes Committee and Wallace House Management Committee.
His hard work and dedication also saw him active within the local community and lend his support to a number of projects.
The caring councillor worked with the homeless both in Evesham and further afield and also served on the Bell Tower Appeal committee, regularly promoting events to raise cash for the cause.
Evesham Mayor Coun Charlie Homer said: “Reg was a committed town councillor who had a passion for the community he served.
“His work with the homeless was testament to this and to his caring nature.
“Our thoughts and sympathies go out to his wife Coun Lynne Jakeman and the family.” he added.
Coun Jakeman also served the residents of Badsey and Aldington on Wychavon District Council since election in 2007 and council leader Coun Paul Middlebrough said his death was ‘a sad loss to the council’.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Reg’s family, particularly his wife Lynne.” he said.
“Reg was a real community man and had a particular desire to help and support the homeless.
“He was vice chairman of Audit Committee, served on the planning committee and was a very active ward member
“All of us here at Wychavon will dearly miss Reg.” he added.
Evesham’s MP Sir Peter Luff also paid tribute to ‘a man who cared passionately about his community locally and about justice for the poor internationally’.
“He worked diligently for his constituents and he and his wife Lynne, were leading campaigners to win Fair Trade status for Evesham.” he said.
“It is hard working councillors like Reg who sustain local democracy and his death will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
“Our thoughts go especially to Lynne at this sad time.” he added.
Coun Jakeman’s funeral will take place at All Saints Church on December 2 at midday.
