A “TIRELESS” Mid Devon politician has died following a short illness.

Barry Warren was still serving as the chair of his local parish council when he died on May 21, and had previously led Mid Devon District Council for a short period in 2023 during a tumultuous time for that authority.

Mr Warren, a former police officer, took charge of Mid Devon in February 2023 following the resignation of the then leader, Councillor Bob Deed, whose exit was precipitated by an exodus from his cabinet due to disagreements over the council’s controversial 3Rivers property development company.

That company has since been closed down, and Mr Warren remained a critic of it, regularly scrutinising it during public question time at Mid Devon’s meetings.

As recently as April, Mr Warren submitted questions to Mid Devon questioning the effectiveness of its audit committee.

He also challenged the council several times over the availability of information, and had some wins via the Information Commissioner.

A statement from Willand Parish Council stated that Mr Warren had died after a short illness.

“Barry was a well-known figure who worked tirelessly for the village over many years and will be missed by the parish clerk, his fellow councillors and the local community,” it said.

“With sincere condolences to his wife and family.”

Councillor Nikki Woollatt (Cullompton St Andrews), an independent member on Mid Devon District Council, said she had been “deeply saddened” to hear of Mr Warren’s death, stating that he would be “greatly missed by many people in the community”.

“Barry was a well-known and respected figure whose kindness, dedication and presence touched the lives of so many,” Cllr Woollatt said.

“I persuaded Barry to stand as an independent candidate in the 2019 district council election, and I was delighted when he was elected. Over the years that followed, I came to know him far better, not only as a colleague but as a good friend.

“He was an excellent councillor whose long service and experience as a member and chairman of Willand Parish Council gave him a strong understanding of community life and public service.

“His background in the police brought a forensic and enquiring mind that greatly benefited the council, particularly during his time as chair of scrutiny.

Cllr Woollatt, who had been a member of Cllr Warren’s cabinet during his brief stint as leader, said he was a man of “great integrity”.

“He had a wonderful sense of humour and an ability to bring a smile even during difficult times,” she added.

Councillor David Wulff (Liberal Democrat, Tiverton Castle), who has recently been elected as leader of Mid Devon District Council, said he had “only had the privilege of knowing Barry in more recent years”.

“He was always approachable, generous with his advice, and absolutely clear about what needed doing,” Cllr Wulff said.

“His dedication to public service, both as a councillor and through his career as a police officer, leaves a lasting legacy for the communities he served.”