TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Lord Mayor of Coventry and former city council leader who died in the early hours of this morning.
Coun John Mutton, who was re-elected to his the Binley and Willenhall ward he served just 10 days ago, had been a councillor since 1984 and was recognised as a political heavyweight.
During his near 40 years serving the residents of the city, Coun Mutton held many positions during that time.
He was Lord Mayor in 1997/98, Deputy Leader of the Council from 2000 to 2003, Leader from 2003 to 2004, Leader of the opposition from 2004 to 2010 and then Leader of the Council from 2010 to 2013.
The ‘Coventry kid’ was immensely proud of the city he was born and grew up in, he attended Manor Park Infants and Junior and Whitley Abbey Comprehensive schools.
The 74-year-old was a lifelong trade unionist, first as a shop steward at the City Engineers depot for the T&GWU and also for USDAW at the Co-op Dairy in Coventry.
When he was younger, Coun Mutton was a talented footballer and played for Coventry City’s youth team and reserves from 1963 to 1965. Later he went on to play as semi-professionally for St Neots and Tring Town.
For many years Coun Mutton has taken a group of young athletes and swimmers to the International Children’s Games – in 2005 it was held in Coventry, the first time the Games had been held in England. In the past Coventry has been the only English city represented and Coun Mutton was looking forward to Coventry once again hosting the International Children’s Games in August this year.
Coventry City Councl leader, Coun George Duggins said the city has lost a formidable figure and champion.
He said: “John Mutton was a legend in political circles and his passing is a terrible blow for the city as well as his family.
“My thoughts are with his wife Mal and all of his family at this desperately sad time, as nothing can prepare you for this.
“John has done so much for the city, but I know one of his proudest achievements – which he was respected internationally for – was his work and involvement with the International Children’s Games.
“Perhaps it is fitting the Games are being hosted once again in Coventry this summer – something I know John was so proud of.”
Leader of the opposition Conservatives Group, Coun Gary Ridley, said: “We may have had our differences politically, but I have always had total respect for John and what he has achieved.
“Nobody had more passion for this city and anyone who met him would know he loved being a councillor who was proud to represent the people of his ward.
“He was dedicated, worked hard and was well respected by councillors, officers and the residents of Binley and Willenhall.
“He worked tirelessly for Coventry and will be greatly missed.
“I’ll miss his contribution, our conversations, and yes, even our (sometimes fierce) contests in full council. My deepest sympathies are with John’s family.”
Coun Mutton leaves behind his wife Mal, two sons, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
