Tributes for former county council leader who has passed away
Former Leicestershire County Council leader Nick Rushton has passed away following treatment for cancer.
Mr Rushton, who led the authority for 12 of the 28 years in which he was a Conservative county councillor, has been described as ‘an outstanding leader’ and ‘a true statesman’.
Flags are being flown at half-mast at County Hall, at Glenfield, in tribute to Mr Rushton, who stepped down as as leader in 2024 after his cancer diagnosis.
His father-in-law, Dan Harrison (Reform UK), who is the current leader of the council, said: “Nick was an outstanding leader of this council.
"He had a unique ability to prioritise the common good and his first duty was always to the residents of Leicestershire.
“Nick was a true statesman. His political nous knew no bounds and neither did his sense of humour.
"He steered the council through tough times, including difficult decisions during austerity, and also saw the council shine on the global stage, with the reinterment of Richard III.
“Nicholas was one those rare breeds who was respected across the political spectrum.
"Just three months ago, Nick was honoured by the council for his long service. He richly deserved this recognition as an Honorary Alderman and I’m really pleased we were able to this.
“I have ordered the flags outside County Hall to be flown at half-mast in tribute.”
Mr Rushton was first elected to the county council in 1989 and served as deputy leader of the council for nine years.
His time as leader coincided with funding being awarded for the building of the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road, which opened to traffic in May and is now called Pork Pie Way.
He also led the council through difficult financial times, which contributed to government funds towards a southern link to the bypass having to be rejected because County Hall could not afford to pay towards the remaining cost.
Mr Rushton held a number of other cabinet positions and was chairman of the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority.
His service also included being vice-chairman of the County Councils Network and was its national spokesman on local government finance.
Mr Rushton’s son, Bertie, was a county councillor between 2021 and 2025.