Family pays tribute to ex Colchester Mayor who died of Covid

Terry Sutton, who was an army veteran and former leader of the Colchester Royal British Legion, died on Friday after testing positive for coronavirus.

The former councillor, who also served as a director of Colchester United, had been battling Parkinsons Disease since 2016.

He was a dedicated and respected councillor serving Berechurch and Pyefleet wards as well as playing a prominent role in the first council cabinet for 24 years.

His Mayoral year in 2005/06 was was memorable for his fundraising efforts including a parachute jump and running the London Marathon.

Before his death he had also been appointed an Honorary Alderman of the Borough due to his dedicated service to the borough.

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Mr Sutton is best remembered by many for his passion for Colchester United, where he served as an Associate Director.

It was during his career in the service he met wife Wilma.

He was also a hugely successful businessman, building up PMS Managing Estates Ltd, a property management company he ran with his sons, Grant and Craig.

Wilma said: "Terry has left a huge hole in our lives. He was my rock."

Mr Sutton was also a grandfather and his family have asked for privacy at this difficult time.

The current mayor of Colchester, Robert Davidson has also paid tribute to Mr Sutton.

He said: “Terry was a dedicated and respected councillor serving Berechurch and Pyefleet wards, as well as playing a prominent role on Colchester’s first Cabinet and committees for over 20 years.

“His mayoral year was memorable for fundraising, with his parachute jump and running the London Marathon.

“He had a great passion for Colchester United, where he served as a director.

“Following a successful army career, where he met his wife, he built up a large housing management company.

“These things and more brought him much respect across the borough.

“Our love and sympathy goes to his devoted wife, Wilma, and his children.”