Tributes to Surrey councillor dubbed 'the kindest man you could ever meet' - Surrey Live

NewsTributes to Surrey councillor dubbed 'the kindest man you could ever meet'His colleagues said he will be fondly remembered for his good humourgetsurreyBookmarkShareCommentsNewsByEmily

DaltonLocal Democracy Reporter10:43, 21 MAY 2025Updated15:26, 21 MAY 2025BookmarkMark Sugden sadly passed away on May 19. (Image: Surrey County Council)Get the latest Surrey Live breaking

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A 65-year-old councillor who was known for “tirelessly working for his community” has died. Mark Sugden passed away on the morning of Monday, May 19 after a long health battle.

His death has been described by friends and colleagues as a huge loss. The county councillor for Hinchley Wood, Claygate and Oxshott, and former international businessman, was first elected

to Surrey County Council in 2021. He quickly earned a reputation for his tireless work in the community with a dollop of good humour.

Originally from West Yorkshire, Mark moved to Claygate in 2007. Residents have been sharing their condolences on social media, describing him as “the kindest man you could ever meet”.

The Hare and Hounds in Claygate, posted a picture of Mark on Facebook with the tribute: "A very sad day today here and for the village. We lost a great friend, customer, supporter,

confidante, helper and the kindest man you could ever meet. In fifteen years I never saw Mark Sugden stop thinking or talking about how he could help our community, the wider community, even

the world.”

The Surrey Conservatives group expressed their sadness at the former councillor’s passing. A social media statement said Mark will be “fondly remembered by his colleagues for his good humour

and determination to serve his residents”.

Party colleagues praised Mark as a “staunch defender of the local green belt” and had worked hard to ensure it was preserved for future generations. The statement said: “His passing leaves

an irreplaceable gap and is a tremendous loss to all who knew him.”

Cllr Paul Deach, another county councillor, said: “Despite his valiant and prolonged battle with illness, Mark remained an unwavering presence in our council, a testament to his deep

commitment to his electorate.”

Beyond his direct responsibilities to his constituents, Mark made significant contributions in his additional roles on council committees. He served as Vice-Chairman of both the Communities

Select Committee and the Environment and Highways Select Committee, as well as the Select Committee Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen group.

Councillors paid tribute to Mark in Surrey County Council’s annual general meeting on May 20. They expressed their sadness at his passing and a true loss for the council and community.

Members also said they were thinking of his family during this difficult time.

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