West Berkshire councillor Peter Argyle passes away

LONG-serving West Berkshire councillor and former council chairman Peter Argyle has passed away.

Mr Argyle served for 24 years as a councillor, having been first elected as ward member for Theale in 1997 before becoming the Calcot ward representative in 2003.

In 2019 he was elected as a Conservative councillor for Tilehurst South and Holybrook.

He also served two terms as the chairman of the council in 2011-2012 and 2015-2016, was chairman of the personnel committee and was an active member of the overview and scrutiny management commission and the corporate parenting panel.

Council leader Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) said: “We are all very sad to hear this news.

“Peter was a true man of the people and a caring, hard-working councillor.

“I remember him for his wonderful sense of humour and for his unfaltering commitment to improving services for local residents, particularly young people.

“He was such a passionate advocate for children and education and used his time at West Berkshire Council to champion their needs.

“Peter’s commitment to West Berkshire will remain a much deserved legacy to him and all those whose lives he touched.

“Our thoughts go out to his family and friends, of whom there are many, at this difficult time.”