Dear Members

You will all have heard by now of the sad death of James. Our hearts go out to Cathy and their three children – and, of course, to Cathy’s parents who are members in Chigwell.

I have known James since he joined our Young Conservatives here some 35 years ago. James was an Officer and a friend of Epping Forest Conservative Association and helped us over many years until he was elected MP for Hornchurch in 2005, an election campaign which many of us supported.

James continued to live in Loughton until he was elected MP for Old Bexley & Sidcup in 2010 - indeed he came to talk to our members at a fund-raising event just a few years ago. We are also proud of all that James achieved, especially when he was appointed to the Cabinet.

Many of us will therefore feel his loss strongly and personally. James was respected and liked by everyone who knew him – his loss will be felt by not only his family and many friends, but also by the Conservative Party. As the Prime Minister has said this morning “James was the nicest, kindest and unassuming of politicians but also extraordinarily effective. He served with particular distinction in the Home Office and as Security Minister. If the Government needed something done well and speedily – and sensibly explained – James was the man to do it.”

Dame Eleanor Laing and our Chairman, Jonathan Hunter, join me in sending the heartfelt condolences of Epping Forest Conservative Association to James’ family.

Valerie Metcalfe

President, Epping Forest Conservative Association