Breaking news: Market Rasen Mayor passes away in hospital

Coun Matthews died in Lincoln Hospital on Saturday, February 20.

Tributes have been led by deputy mayor Stephen Bunney, who said: “John was extremely proud of Market Rasen and felt greatly privileged to have been elected to the office of Mayor/Chair of The Town Council.

“Over the years he served the community in a wide variety of ways.

“He was an active member of Market Rasen Business Initiative Group [Mr Big], The Mary Portas Pilot, Market Rasen Town Partnership, De Aston School Governor, Market Rasen Racecourse Liaison, and Market Rasen Station Restoration Group, as well as his council work.

“Over the years he has been involved in Town Clean Ups, Christmas Tree and Christmas Lights projects, organising Fareshare food collections from the local super-markets for the schools and local food banks, catering at town events in addition to his Mayoral duties at the annual civic church service, Remembrance Day Service and many others.

“During his time as Mayor, he and his wife, Jayne, raised over £20,000 for local charities, including Air Ambulance, Lives, Fire Fighters, Motor Neuron Disease Association and Flights for Life.  

“John used his good social and hosting skills to great effect in networking with civic dignitaries and councils across wider Lincolnshire and made sure that Market Rasen’s interests were represented.

“John’s commitment, energy and enthusiasm  will be much missed.”