Former leader of the Vale, Roger Cox

It’s with great sadness that we can confirm that Roger Cox, the former Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, passed away on Saturday.

He represented his local Faringdon ward for many years and served in a number of different Cabinet positions before becoming leader.

It was while he was Leader of the council in 2019 that he announced his retirement and didn’t stand at the subsequent election.

Cllr Emily Smith, Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, paid tribute to Roger who preceded her as council leader: “On behalf of everyone at Vale of White Horse District Council, I would like to offer our sincerest condolences to Roger’s family and friends, and to the people of Faringdon where Roger served as ward councillor for so long.

“I was personally extremely sad to hear this news too. Roger was a dedicated and committed councillor – he was a popular figure and hugely well respected among councillors and officers as well.

“I got to know Roger when he was leading the council and I was leader of the opposition. We had some enjoyable conversations about council business, as well as his grandchildren – who he clearly thought the world of. Roger was committed to doing his best for the people of Faringdon and the Vale. He will be missed by us all.”