In Memory of Councillor Stuart Parker MBE, 1950 – 2026

Councillors across Cheshire West & Chester have joined together to mourn the loss of Councillor Stuart Parker MBE, who passed away on Sunday 5th April 2026.

The long-serving and well recognised Conservative Councillor, Cllr Stuart Parker had served on Cheshire West and Chester Council with distinction since its inception in 2008. Initially representing the Gowy ward until 2011, he then represented Chester Villages until 2019, where further boundary changes meant he was re-elected to Christleton and Huntington in 2019 and 2023. During this time, he served on the Council’s Executive from 2009 to 2015 and was awarded an MBE as part of the Queen’s Jubilee Honours in 2022, recognising his long and successful impact on local politics and his involvement in the creation of Storyhouse – one of his proudest legacies.

Serving proudly alongside his wife, Councillor Margaret Parker (Gowy Rural, Con), Cllr Stuart Parker will be remembered for his legacy of hard work. As a mark of respect, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s house flag will be lowered on council buildings, a candle lit at Chester Town Hall and a condolence book is being arranged for residents to pay tribute.

Upon hearing the news of Cllr Parker’s passing, Councillor Adrian Waddelove (Farndon, Con), Conservative Group Leader, said:

“Our deepest condolences and thoughts go to Cllr Margaret Parker, their family and friends. Stuart was one of a kind. He was always incredibly gentle and welcoming. Even as his health declined which meant he had to step back a little, I used to enjoy our regular catch-ups.

Stuart was a deeply valued member of our team and has served our area proudly for decades, something which was clearly reflected as he received an MBE from the late Queen for his role in making Storyhouse what it is today.

He will be a huge loss to our community in Cheshire and whomever fills his seat, will have very big boots to fill. May he rest in peace.”

Councillor Simon Eardley (Saughall and Mollington, Con), Cheshire West and Chester Conservative Group Deputy Leader and current Sheriff of the City of Chester, added:

"Cllr Stuart Parker was a dedicated and honourable public servant. For many years, he served rural communities in Chester and Cheshire with distinction and quiet determination to achieve the best possible outcomes for them at all times. His legacy for Chester will be permanently felt with the significant and transformative project for which he will long be associated, that of Storyhouse.

“His sense of public service was exemplified when he was appointed to be the 1365th Sheriff of the City of Chester; an office he was proud to hold, and which allowed him the opportunity to serve a wider community in the oldest civic role that Chester retains. I will remember him with the greatest affection as a thoughtful colleague and a loyal friend. May he rest in peace."

Further details of arrangements for a funeral, tributes and a condolence book will be provided in due course.

The entire Cheshire West and Chester Conservative Group sends its best wishes and sincerest condolences to Cllr Margaret Parker, their family and friends.