It is with sadness that the Council announces the sad passing away of Cllr Olawale Martins who until his death was member representing Heath Ward and was Deputy Chair of the Council’s Pensions Committee.

First elected to the Council in 2018, Cllr Martins served on a number of council committees and was re-elected again in May 2022.

Breaking the news, Cllr Leader, Cllr Darren Rodwell, said: “It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that our colleague, and friend, Councillor Olawale Martins passed away on Sunday evening.

“I know that all councillors will be sending their best wishes to Councillor Martins' wife and all his loved ones at this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts.”

The borough flag is now flying at half-mast as a mark of respect for Councillor Martins' public service on behalf of Heath Ward and the borough at large.

Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.