THE untimely death of a man who contributed so much to Crediton, Mid Devon, Devon and beyond was announced on Tuesday, April 8.
The Devon County Councillor for Crediton, the chairman of Mid Devon District Council and a Crediton Town Councillor, Frank Letch, who passed away at home during the previous night, led by example.
Frank was firstly elected to Mid Devon District Council in 2015 and to Devon County Council in 2021. Because of his work and commitment to his local community Frank was awarded the MBE in the New Year's honours list in 2015.
Over the years Frank had roles with several charities including Reach (Association for Children with upper limb deficiency) Devon in Sight, the Jubilee Sailing Trust and a local preschool.
Frank was born in June 1944 in the East End of London, which at that time was being regularly bombed, and lived there until 1963 when he attended Birmingham University to study French and Italian.
After graduating he spent five years teaching in Birmingham and married Helen before moving to Bala in Wales.
There Frank continued his career teaching in English and later in Welsh. In Wales Frank made four hour-length documentaries in Welsh about various aspects of his life.
When asked about his life Frank said: “Most people know that I was born without arms. Nobody knows why and it doesn't really matter if they do because it won't change anything will it?
“Because of this my first 11 years of education were spent in special schools.
“Despite all this I managed to pass 10 O levels and later went on to grammar school where I passed three A levels. While I remained in London to sit my A levels my parents and sister moved to Cheriton Bishop for father’s work.
"In 1963 I went to Birmingham University to study French and Italian. I also had A level Spanish, so you might guess I'm a linguist. During my degree I spent a year teaching English in France and loved it. I've always had a very soft spot for France."
Frank retired in 1992 to concentrate on his five children and their kennel of dogs after Helen sadly died in 1990. Frank was a Kennel Club certified dog trainer but also was a well-known exhibitor, winning several times at Crufts.
In 1995 Frank moved to Scotland but decided that Scotland was not for him and moved to Devon where he chose Crediton.
He soon settled and became an active member of the community, becoming a school governor, joining Rotary and much more.
Frank also married again, a lady he met on holiday in Egypt.
In 2004, Frank became a town councillor and was the Mayor of Crediton for 13 years.
He said that he was proud that his wife Natalia was Mayoress and later became a Town and District councillor.
Natalia has been steadfast in her support of Frank, especially during his recent battle with cancer.
Previously Frank said he enjoyed being a councillor because it gave him the opportunity to listen and to represent the people of Crediton.
He said: “I believe that I am a good listener and speaker and ably put forward the concerns and problems of my constituents.”
The support he has given to Crediton, Mid Devon and Devon groups and organisations cannot be underestimated.
For example, as mayor he visited local schools, improved the town’s relationship with twin town in France, Avranches, represented the town at the Mid Devon Show, attended police aware ceremonies, various CODS’ productions and many civic and remembrance events.
He was fluent in four or five languages.
Frank maintained his fitness to enable him to complete tasks with his feet such as writing or peeling vegetables.
When he gave talks, one of his demonstrations which surprised everyone was his dexterity by peeling a potato in record time.
Frank had an adapted car which gave him more freedom.
When not attending council meetings or reading papers for them he enjoyed reading, listening to classical music, gardening and keeping in contact with his children and distant friends.
Frank also spent 10 years as a tribunal judge for Employment and DLA Tribunals.
Speaking lately about his life, Frank said: “I have learned to be content with what I have.”
His contribution to society cannot be underestimated, he highlighted discrimination, helped individuals and organisations, adored his family, inspired others, remained positive despite adversity, offered sage advice where needed and fought battles for the town of Crediton which has been so dear to his heart.
He gave a great deal to this town, time, commitment, enthusiasm and leadership.
• If you have a tribute or memory of Frank, please email it to: [email protected] .
Written tributes can be sent to: The Editorial Manager, Crediton Courier, c/o Crediton Library, Belle Parade, Crediton EX17 2AA.