King's Lynn: Tributes to former council leader Nick Daubney

Nick Daubney, 72, passed away at his home in Pott Row, near King's Lynn, in the early hours of Monday.

He was a member of West Norfolk council for 20 years before retiring from the authority, of which he was also leader for 10 years, in 2019.

Last month he was made an honorary alderman of the borough in recognition of his services, which included being mayor for 2018/19.

He was also county councillor for Freebridge, Lynn ward. 

Former North West Norfolk MP Sir Henry Bellingham said: "My heartfelt prayers go out to [his widow] Cheryl and the rest of his family.

"He was an absolute stalwart not just in local government but across the whole of West Norfolk and Norfolk as well.

"He was deputy leader for eight years, leader for 10 years and during that time he really made sure West Norfolk was absolutely on the agenda in Whitehall and across the region.

"If it hadn't been for him, we wouldn't have got the Palm Paper investment and he was very active in the campaign to get the Queen Elizabeth Hospital rebuilt."

Mr Daubney, who represented the Woottons and Castle Rising for the Conservatives, also led the successful campaign to prevent an incinerator being built at Saddlebow, near Lynn.

Lorraine Gore, the council's chief executive, said: "I know he will be missed, but warmly remembered by many of his fellow councillors, members of staff and the wider community."  

Terry Parish, leader of the council, said: "He left a lasting legacy in this borough and will be remembered for his unwavering support for local business and his campaign against the incinerator." 

Independent councillor Alistair Beales, portfolio holder for regeneration, said: "Nick was a man of extraordinary integrity and ability.

"He was driven by his twin passions of home and family life, and service to the people of West Norfolk.

"It was a joy and an honour to work alongside him for so many years at the borough, and a privilege to count him as the dearest of friends.”