Wyre Forest District Council has paid tribute to former district councillor Stephen Clee, who has died.
Clee was a Conservative Party member who served the council for more than 20 years. He first represented Wribbenhall and Arley ward from 1992 to 1996, then served continuously from 1998 to 2018 for Bewdley ward, which later became Bewdley and Rock.
Leadership and wider service
Clee was Leader of the Council from 2004 to 2007 and served as Chairman of the Council for two consecutive terms between 2011 and 2013. He also held clerk positions at Rock Parish Council and Stone Parish Council, and served on Worcestershire County Council and Bewdley Town Council.
Tributes from council leadership
Councillor Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council, said: "I was saddened to learn of the news of former Cllr. Stephen Clee's passing. It was Stephen that first got me involved in local politics nearly 30 years ago. He appointed me as his Deputy Leader of the Council in 2004 when we took control, and whilst he was Leader and then subsequently in the Cabinet, he shaped this District for the better. He was also a very strong Chairman of the Council too."
Councillor George Connolly, Chairman of Wyre Forest District Council, said: "On behalf of everyone at Wyre Forest District Council, I would like to offer our sincere condolences to Stephen's family and friends at this sad time. Stephen served the district for many years and made an important contribution to the council and the community. He will be remembered for his dedication to public service and his commitment to Wyre Forest."