It was with great sadness that the Liberal Democrat County group learnt of the passing of a great friend and former Councillor John Whitehouse. I along with my fellow group members first met John when he was elected as a Warwickshire County Councillor in 2005 for Kenilworth Abbey. From day one you could see here was a man passionate about his community and from that time he worked tirelessly not only for the residents of Kenilworth but also for the residents of Warwickshire. His keen eye for detail and figures along with checking the performance of directorates was used to great effect. He led the Connect2 Kenilworth/Greenway walking and cycling project since its inception in 2007, through to its completion at the end of 2012. He was the Cycling Champion for the County Council, and worked to advance other important schemes.
During his time as a County councillor I have very fond memories of John especially through the no overall control days. John led the charge for safer routes to schools and 20mph zones. I well remember the discussions we had over the budgets and especially when the precept for adult social care was introduced by the government and his explanation not only to our group and officers but also to the Council.
It was a sad moment for our group when John decided not to stand again but his passion for Liberal Democracy burned bright and he continued working with the local party and joined us on Zoom meetings as we entered the 2021 County elections his input and management skill in keeping us to time was invaluable. There is a lot more that can be said of John and each one of us that knew him will have there own particular memory that they can cherish. His passion for Liberal Democracy will not be forgotten. He will be missed by me and fellow Liberal Democrats he was one of those rare people that was not just a colleague but a true friend. RIP John and our heart goes out to your family but i know you will be looking on at what we are doing for individuals and our community’s. Cllr Jerry Roodhouse Group Leader Warwickshire Liberal Democrats.
