Crewe Town Council is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague Councillor Brian Roberts.
Brian first became an elected member of Crewe Town Council in 2015. Prior to this, Brian had spent much of his working life as a Manager within the Construction Industry. Since becoming a Town Councillor, Brian served as a passionate and committed advocate on issues such as planning and the environment; the redevelopment of the Town Centre; Young people and especially those who are more vulnerable within our local community.
Brian also faced many personal setbacks in his own life. Indeed, there was a portion of time where Brian was unable to contribute as an active member of the local community – Which then makes it no surprise that Brian was able to demonstrate a great sense of empathy for others facing vulnerability, or great personal and challenging circumstances, or doing everything that Brian could to help to provide shelter, food and opportunities for those who are less fortunate.
One of Brian’s proudest achievements was becoming the Mayor of Crewe from 2018 – 2019. Which is something that we will all look back on with great fondness. One particular highlight was the twinning visit involving guests from Macon, which also formed part of Remembrance Sunday, where Brian even shed a tear when being presented with an absolutely stunning WW1 shell casing as a token of appreciation.
Brian was treated to a gymnastics performance by the Crewe and Nantwich Gymnastics Club in which they did all manner of twists, turns and jumps – to those who knew Brian well – you would not believe how many times Brian had to be held back from participating himself!
Brian also attended a number of events involving children and young people. There was one picture of Brian sitting in a chair, and a little girl came to throw her arms around him, for anyone who has seen that picture, you will notice the sheer expression of joy and laughter on Brian’s face, as she took Brian completely by surprise.
Brian also served as an elected member of Cheshire East Council, where he became the Portfolio Holder for Highways and Waste; a Trustee of CHANCE – Changing Lives; and, a Trustee of the Cheshire Neighbour’s Credit Union.
Councillor Benn Minshall, Mayor of Crewe, led the Council’s tributes “Brian was a family-man. I know this from the many conversations which I shared with him regarding both his children and grandchildren. I also know how proud he was that his grandchildren were able to share much of his mayoral year with him when he was attending certain engagements. And, I can only imagine how proud they were when their grandad became the Mayor of Crewe. Brian took the very worst of what had happened in his own life, and made that the very best of what he gave to others. We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Brian’s family and to thank them for allowing us to share in Brian’s life.”
