Freddie Cooper dies

The sad news emerged during the last week that Freddie Cooper, the former leader of Gillingham Borough Council, has died aged 91.

Mr Cooper, the last surviving Freeman of the Borough of Gillingham, campaigned hard throughout his time in office and beyond, most recently heard voicing his opposition to Medway Council’s plans to selling off the Municipal Buildings.

Mr Cooper served as a Conservative Councillor on Gillingham Borough Council for many years and his many achievements include the creation of both Gillingham Business Park and the Medway City Estate.

Alan Watkins, reporter for the Medway Messenger, said on his Tales from Gun Wharf blog:

Freddie Cooper didn’t worry who he upset from the day he was elected to serve on Gillingham Borough Council shortly after the end of the Second World War.

He was a fascinating, wonderful character to talk to about the way the Medway Towns had been shaped, with more than a few ounces of Freddie’s interference.

He will be sorely missed by all who had the fortune to meet him.