Tributes paid to Cllr David Kirk following his sudden death (From Daily Echo)

Tributes paid to Cllr David Kirk following his sudden death

12:44pm Tuesday 17th August 2010 in

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TRIBUTES have been paid to the “larger than life” head of Hampshire’s schools, who has died suddenly, aged 63.

Cllr David Kirk, who was in charge of the county council’s education system for five years, has been described as a “tireless” people’s champion.

A father of four, the prominent councillor, who held three Cabinet posts during his 13 years on the council and also served on Hampshire and Rescue Fire Authority and as vice-president of Hampshire Association of Local Councils, died on Sunday.

Cllr Kirk leaves his widow, Tracey, and their two sons, as well as two daughters from a previous marriage.

The cause of death has not yet been revealed, but it is understood that he was found at the Kingfisher Caravan Park in Stokes Bay, near Gosport.

It is thought that he may have suffered a heart problem and died in his sleep.

Colleagues last night expressed their shock.

County Council leader Cllr Ken Thornber said that Cllr Kirk was “a very great champion”

for children’s services.

Cllr Thornber said: “David will be greatly missed. His death has been a terrible shock and leaves a large hole in the Cabinet of Hampshire County Council.

“David was a tireless campaigner and was one of those characters who was larger than life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tracey and to David’s sons and daughters at this very sad time.”

Cllr Royston Smith, chairman of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority, said that he had been stunned by the news of Cllr Kirk’s death.

He said: “He was a great public servant. He was one of those people who just filled a room – you knew when you were in his presence.”

Steven Lugg, president of the Hampshire Association of Local Councils, said that Cllr Kirk “always worked for the good of both the residents and communities.”