Rex Barnett - a bloody good bloke! 

Tributes paid to former Swindon mayor, who has sadly died

 

SwindonWeb makes no apology for the language used in the title of this story. Sometimes it's the only way to properly describe the way we - and many other people - truly think. 

 

And Councillor Rex Barnett, who sadly died yesterday after suffering from mesothelioma (an asbestos related condition, ironically known as the 'Swindon disease'), was just that - a bloody decent bloke.

 

And a true Swindonian.

 

 

He was mayor of Swindon in 2010 and the last of the railway workers of the once great Swindon Works to hold the post (see interview link below). It really is the end of an era with his passing.

 

Our thoughts go out to his wife Sandra, who alongside Rex helped raise an amazing £70,000 for local good causes in their mayoral year.

 

Tributes

 

"He was a class act. He loved Swindon. He loved everything about Swindon. Being mayor was the biggest thrill for him and I can't think of anyone who deserved it more."

Rod Bluh, former Swindon Council leader.

 

'Exceptionally sad news about Cllr Rex Barnett, Mr Haydon Wick. As Mayor his cheeky charm brought colour, fun & record money 4 charity' Swindon North MP Justin Tomlinson (Twitter)

 

'I am very sad to hear of the death today of Cllr Rex Barnett. My thoughts are with his beloved wife Sandra and their family. Swindon has lost a great man. Rest in peace, Rex.'

Swindon South MP Robert Buckland