HEARTWARMING tributes to Crediton Councillor Frank Letch have been made by many individuals, councils, organisations, our local MP and by many others.
Mid Devon District Council said that sadly on Tuesday, April 8, the Council’s current Chairman, and a very well-known figure in the Crediton community and beyond, Councillor Frank Letch MBE, died following an illness.
The Leader of Mid Devon District Council, Luke Taylor, along with colleagues, have released the below tribute to Frank who was an active part of Mid Devon District Council for 10 years.
Councillor Luke Taylor, said: “Frank poured his heart and soul into local politics and would always represent his communities to the highest of standards, as he would expect from us all. He never shied away from stepping forward to represent others, be that through his role as a local councillor or through supporting charities and organisations close to his heart.
“He took on many roles at the Council, including scrutiny, planning and equality, and despite his busy schedule, and latterly his poor health, he continued to advocate for fairness and representation for everyone.
“This Council will be a poorer place without Frank’s dedication and enthusiasm to local politics and he will be missed by elected Members from across all parties.”
Frank was born in June 1944 in the East End of London, which at that time was being regularly bombed. Frank spent his first eleven years of education in special schools where he passed 10 O Levels and later went on to grammar school where he achieved three A levels. While Frank remained in London to sit his A Levels his parents and sister moved to Cheriton Bishop for his father’s work.
Frank attended Birmingham University to study French and Italian in 1963 and after graduating he spent five years teaching in Birmingham and married Helen, before moving to Bala in Wales. Here Frank continued his career teaching in English and later in Welsh. He was a very keen linguist.
Most people know that Frank was born without arms and his response when asked about this was: "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?”
Frank retired in 1992 to concentrate on his five children and their kennel of dogs, after his wife 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. Over the years Frank has 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. Because of his work and commitment to his local community Frank was awarded the MBE in the New Year's honours list in 2015.
Frank was first elected to Mid Devon District Council in 2015 and to Devon County Council in 2021.
He was the Mayor of Crediton for 13 years and was elected Chairman of Mid Devon District Council in 2023. As well as being a councillor for Crediton Town and Devon County Councils Frank also chaired many Mid Devon committees, including Scrutiny, and at Devon County Council chaired the Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee.
During his time as Mid Devon’s Chairman Frank promoted and supported “Access for All” and Devon Young Carers through two very successful Civic Services as well as hosting the 50th Anniversary celebration of the district council and the Council’s D Day 80th Anniversary.
Frank is survived by his wife Natalia, who is a serving member of Mid Devon District Council.
His colleagues in Democratic Services at MDDC, who supported him during his role, said: "Frank always put his constituents’ welfare first particularly in relation to housing.
“He was a stickler for correct spelling and grammar in officer reports but always put people at ease. Frank was a true gentleman who was always smiling and popular with our officers for his cheerfulness and sense of humour. We will always remember his love for an inspirational ‘thought for the day’ at the full Council meetings he chaired.”
BOOKS OF CONDOLENCE
Mid Devon District Council has opened a Book of Condolence in the reception at Phoenix House, or you can leave a message of condolence using the online form - https://www.middevon.gov.uk/do-it-online/miscellaneous/book-of-condolence/
The council said its thoughts are with Frank’s wife, Natalia, along with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
Crediton Town Council has opened a Book of Condolence at Crediton Town Council Offices, 8A North Street, Crediton for those wishing to leave a message following the passing of Councillor Frank Letch.
The council said its thoughts are with Frank’s wife, Natalia, along with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
TOOK CREDITON TO HIS HEART
Mel Stride, the MP for Central Devon, paid tribute and said: “Frank was a remarkable man. He took Crediton to his heart. He will be hugely missed. Michelle and my thoughts are with Natalia and family.”
TRUE CHAMPION FOR THE COMMUNITY
Crediton Town Council said Frank served as Mayor from 2008 - 2021.
It added: “Frank was a dedicated leader, a compassionate advocate, and a true champion for our community, and many others.
“His legacy is one of perseverance, progress, and consideration for all those who live in our town.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Frank's family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. As we reflect on his life and contributions, may we honour his memory by continuing the work he so passionately believed in.
“Rest in peace, Frank. You will be deeply missed by all of the staff and councillors at Crediton Town Council and the wider community.
“As a mark of respect, from today the Crediton flag will be flown at half mast.”
SUPPORTED LOCAL BLIND PEOPLE
Graham Flynn of the charity Devon in Sight, said: “So sorry to hear that dear Frank has died.
“Frank had no arms. He was a popular local figure in politics.
“He also helped support local blind people. His tales of helping a crediton man with his food shopping were hilarious.
“He would lead our client around pushing his trolly whilst Frank selected food with his bare feet. This included frozen items from chest freezers!
“The ‘great’ British public didn’t know what to make of it!
“He was a great supporter of our charity Devon in Sight. What a legend!”
INSPIRATIONAL
Crediton Lions said: “Crediton Lions Club are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such an inspirational person. We presented Frank our internationally known Melvin Jones Fellowship Award in recognition of his contribution to our community and always thought of him fondly as a member of our Lions' family. Our sincere condolences to Natalia and his family.”
LIBRARY SUPPORTER
Crediton Library said: “We were very sorry to hear of the passing of the wonderful Frank Letch this week, and offer our heartfelt condolences to Natalia and the rest of the family.
“Frank was always a great supporter of the library, with a sophisticated and eclectic taste in literature, and a great desire for reading. He set himself reading goals (which he always surpassed) and enjoyed a bit of banter on his frequent visits.
“It was always a joy to have Frank at our events.
“He will be sorely missed, but his memory will live on for many years in Crediton and the surrounding area.”
ONE OF LIFE’S GOOD GUYS
Alan Crow commented: “We met Frank on our first visit to Reach, a charity for upper limb disability and what an amazing and inspiring man Frank was.
“His advice for us and our young son was something we will never forget.
“Thank you and RIP one of life's good guys.”
• 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.
Alan Quick