Tributes paid to Lichfield town clerk after his death

Christopher Moulton, aged 53, was Lichfield's town clerk up until his sudden death this week.

A joint statement produced by Lichfield City Council staff paid tribute to a 'deeply respected' man.

It read: "Christopher was an excellent town clerk, the heart of the city council and a deeply respected, liked and admired man. He had a warm, patient and approachable manner, an enviable depth of knowledge and a sharp and often very insightful sense of humour.

"His style of leadership made the city council a very close knit family, and we continue the necessary day to day duties of the council in his name and in his honour. He is irreplaceable, and we will miss him terribly.”

David Smedley, the leader of the city council, added: “It has been a terrible shock for everyone. Christopher loved our city and was a pleasure to work with - sensible, pragmatic and dedicated to his role as town clerk.

"He was a good, kind man who I am proud to have known and worked alongside. Since becoming town clerk in 2015 Christopher’s impact on the city council cannot be overstated. I, on behalf of all the city councillors, send our condolences, prayers and best wishes to his family and friends at this tragic time.”

Mr Moulton began working for the city council in February 2008, initially as deputy town clerk, and became town clerk in 2015.

Councillor Mike Wilcox, the leader of Lichfield District Council, said: “Hearing of Christopher’s death is such sad and unexpected news. He was a committed town clerk and a lovely man to work alongside, and put the interests of the city before all else. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him, or came into contact with him.

"On behalf of the district council, I would like to extend our sympathies to his family and friends, and to let them know we are thinking of them at this time”

A book of condolence has been opened at the city council’s offices at Donegal House, Bore St, Lichfield.