It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that Councillor George Barton, Chairman of Adur District Council in 2019 and 2020 died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday night.
George was born in Gillingham, Kent and attended the local Grammar School. He spent his career in the field of Training and Development with one of the old Industrial Training Boards, and was in great demand as a motivational speaker throughout Europe.
On retirement, George entered local politics and became Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group of York City Unitary Authority before moving to Sompting with his wife, Vee. On arrival in Sompting George was welcomed with open arms by the local Conservative Party and until very recently, he was serving very ably as a Councillor on both Adur District Council and West Sussex County Council.
He also served in the Territorial Army for 20 years achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Everyone who met George has commented on what a lovely man he was, a true gentleman and a devoted family man. George is survived by his wife, Vee, two children, Nicholas and Julie, and a granddaughter, Kate.
Tim Loughton MP said “I was very sorry to hear the sad news about Councillor George Barton who will be greatly missed not only by his many friends and colleagues on the Council but the many people in the local communities he represented so well. He was a distinguished Chair of Adur Council and he always represented our area with pride, distinction and great courtesy. Despite his recent battle with illness George remained optimistic and upbeat and completely dedicated to serving his constituents. There will be a big space at the bar when the Gardener’s Arms eventually reopens, a favourite place which he always referred to as ‘the office.’ R.I.P. George.”
