Tributes paid to former Coventry council leader John Mutton

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Tributes have been paid to the former leader of Coventry City Council, John Mutton, who has died aged 74



The Labour councillor has served the Binley and Willenhall ward of the city since 1984.

Current leader of the council George Duggins, said the city had lost a "formidable figure and champion".

"John Mutton was a legend in political circles and his passing is a terrible blow for the city as well as his family," he said.

"John has done so much for the city, but I know one of his proudest achievements - which he was respected internationally for - was his work and involvement with the International Children's Games.

"Perhaps it is fitting that the Games are being hosted once again in Coventry this summer, something I know John was so proud of."

Conservative leader Gary Ridley said: "Nobody had more passion for this city and anyone who met him would know he loved being a councillor who was proud to represent the people of his ward.

"He worked tirelessly for Coventry and will be greatly missed."

Councillor Mutton leaves behind his wife Mal, two sons, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, said the city council.

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Coventry council by-election announced after death of long-serving councillor



A council ward in Coventry will hold a by-election this summer following the death of a long-serving councillor. Binley and Willenhall councillor John Mutton died at the age of 74 last month, just days after he was re-elected on May 5 to serve another four-year term.

The Labour representative served the ward for 38 years and held multiple roles on the council including Leader and Lord Mayor. A by-election for the vacant seat will take place on July 14 with polls open from 7am-10pm. Results of the election will be posted online during the count after polls close.

Anyone not already registered to vote needs to do so by midnight on June 28 and applications to vote by post must go in by 5pm on June 29. If you don't want to vote in person or by post you can register to vote by proxy and the deadline for this is 5pm on July 26.

Candidate nominations open today (June 9) and end at 4pm on Friday, June 17. A list of candidates will then be posted on the council website.

A spokesman for Coventry City Council said: "Following the recent sad death of Councillor John Mutton, a by-election has been called to fill the vacancy of Councillor for Binley and Willenhall Ward. The date of the election will be July 14, 2022.

"All electors who are currently registered or who register by June 28 and are eligible to vote will receive a poll card. If you haven't had a poll card, you can contact the elections office helpline to check your registration status. The helpline number is 024 7683 3034."