Tributes paid to 'community champion'

John Furey had a distinguished career as a public servant

Tributes have been paid after a councillor in Surrey who was "always prepared to champion causes he believed in" passed away.

John Furey served the community of Addlestone for a quarter of a century, first as a Runnymede borough councillor and then later as a county member as well.

Mr Furey was first elected on to Runnymede council in 2000 with colleagues describing him as someone who gave "endless time to the community".

He would go on to hold the role as leader of the borough between 2006 and 2011, as well as deputy leader of Surrey County Council in 2017 -18.

Councillor Marissa Heath, who worked alongside Mr Furey said: "What I saw over 20 years [of working with John] was a man who gave endless time to the community.

"Everyday he was in the council or meeting residents and that included the weekends, it was his life and he did not do it for praise or reward, he did it because he was all about service to the community.

"He didn't back down on issues, fought hard for his residents and was very clear in his views and values so you knew where you stood with him."

Surrey County Council described Mr Furey as someone with a no-nonsense approach as a dedicated and forthright public servant who worked tirelessly for the benefit of residents.