Burnham-On-Sea’s former MP has paid tribute to ex-Liberal Democrats leader Lord Paddy Ashdown who has died this weekend at the age off 77 after a short illness.
Lord Ashdown was diagnosed with bladder cancer in October and passed away on Saturday (December 22nd).
He and his wife had strong links to Burnham-On-Sea, having married and lived in the town during the 1960s.
Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com in 2011 during a visit to the town, Lord Ashdown said: “I actually know Burnham very well, having got married in St Andrew’s Church on the town’s seafront back in 1962. It’s a special place for us.”
His wife, Jane, added at the time: “Yes, Burnham has a special place in our hearts. I was born in The Grove and my grandfather worked at Lloyd’s Bank in the town for many years. We later lived in Golf Links Road for several years.”
Burnham’s former Lib Dem MP, Tessa Munt, said on Saturday evening: “Paddy was a fantastic leader, brimming with great ideas, energy and enthusiasm. He was such a passionate Liberal and really supportive over the years. He’ll be sorely missed.”
“A sad day for Somerset, which he dearly loved. My thoughts are with Jane and his family.”
Lord Ashdown was MP for Yeovil from 1983 to 2001, and leader of the Liberal Democrats from 1988 until 1999. He was also the international High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2002 until 2006.
