FRIENDS, loved ones and colleagues paid tribute to a Stratton councillor who dedicated his life to public service.

John Foley spent a remarkable 50 years working in local authorities which mainly included the parish and the borough, along with nine years at Wiltshire Council.

He and wife Eileen Foley came to Swindon from Reading in 1967 before serving for decades on Stratton St Margaret Parish Council with their late son John Jr and daughter-in-law Alison.

A keen scoutmaster, he retired from his council duties in 2019 along with Eileen - together, they spent a combined total of 90 years serving their community.

Coun John Foley said at the time: “I’ve had a very happy time on the parish council, it’s been so lovely. It only seems like yesterday that I went into the offices in Meadowcroft.”

Outgoing chairman Coun Stuart Leach said at the ceremony: "How many people can you name who have volunteered and devoted themselves to public service for 50 years? I can think of only one person -John Foley Sr.

"His name is on the bottom of the chair’s chain. John served his council since there was just a vision of Grange Leisure."

In August 2020, a plaque honouring John's career was installed in a new orchard in the allotments off St Philip’s Road and unveiled by Alison Foley.

John Foley Sr died on March 29 at the age of 86 after a period of ill health. He would have turned 87 today.

Stratton St Margaret Parish Council chairman Coun Robert Jandy said: “He was an exemplary parish councillor whose passion was to help and support his fellow residents .

“We will never see his type again and the parish will ensure that he is remembered.”

A parish council spokesman posted this tribute on Facebook: “John’s life was one of public duty. He served the parishioners of Stratton St Margaret as a councillor for 50 years – the magnitude of this dedication is without question.

“His commitment to making Stratton a great place to live and work in was demonstrated in his tireless work for our community.

“John also served as a county councillor and borough councillor for many years.

“We know you’ll join us in offering our condolences to his wife Eileen, daughter Jackie and daughter in law Alison.”

Deputy Swindon Borough Council leader Coun Russell Holland said: “He truly put in a huge amount of effort over years of service for Stratton.”

Coun Tim Page said: “A record of service to Stratton that is unparalleled. A great loss to the parish and his family.”

Coun Claire Crilly said: “John Foley was a legend, I’ll miss him so much. Thoughts are with his family,.”

Addie Vince said: "So sorry to hear this. Mum used to mention John all the time when she served on the parish council with him. Thoughts are with his wife and family at this sad time."

Joe Prinzi said: "Deepest condolences to the family. I had the pleasure to have worked with him as a governor, will be sadly missed."

Susan Draper said: "Thoughts are with Eileen and family at this sad time. RIP John - remembering the good times at Grange Community Leisure Centre."

Deborah Lawrence said: "A gentleman to have known and worked for. RIP."

Sara Dommett said: "Love to all his family in this difficult time."

John Foley's daughter Jackie Tremain thanked everyone for their kind words and said: “My Dad will be sadly missed by all our family.”