BREAKING NEWS - Liberal Democrats Leader on Milton Keynes City Council Dies During Party Conference

The leader of the Liberal Democrats opposition group on Milton Keynes City Council has passed away while attending his party’s annual conference.

Robin Bradburn, 68, had also served as deputy leader of the council when the Lib Dems and Labour formed a Progressive Alliance.

The party conference in Brighton observed a minute's silence for him on Sunday afternoon.

His wife, Marie Bradburn, is the current mayor of the city, and their daughter, Kerrie Bradburn, is also a Lib Dem councillor. Mr Bradburn was first elected as a councillor in 2010, became party group leader in 2021, and was re-elected to the authority in 2023, alongside his daughter.

Michael Bracey, Chief Executive of Milton Keynes City Council said, "We are all so sad to hear that Cllr Robin Bradburn has passed away. He has served the council in a number of roles, including as Deputy Leader, and his work with officers of the council was always exemplary."

Cllr Jane Carr, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats said, "Robin was an amazing man, and we are all so shocked and hurt by his sudden loss. He was a good friend, colleague, and councillor, but above all he was a devoted husband to Marie, dad to Alan and Kerrie, and a loving granddad. He will be deeply missed by us all."

Cllr Peter Marland, Leader of Milton Keynes City Council said, "Councillor Robin Bradburn was a role model of public service. Robin served the residents of the city because he believed that we could make a difference to the lives of the people we represent. I’m deeply upset by the news having lost a colleague and friend.”

Cllr Shazna Muzammil, on behalf of the Conservative Group said, "The Conservative Group are sad to hear about Councillor Robin Bradburn passing away. On behalf of my group, I would like to express my condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues at this very difficult time. Personally, I share a profound sense of loss; Robin was known for his kindness and generosity, and he will be missed by us all.”