Councillor Eburne passed away on Friday 14th March after a long battle with cancer, despite which she played a leading role in the Mid Suffolk District Council and local Green Party.
Rachel Eburne was elected as a Green Party councillor for the Haughley and Wetherden ward of Mid Suffolk District Council at a by-election in 2010. The third Green, she was then twice returned unopposed and later topped the poll of the enlarged ward. Rachel went on to lead the group as it grew to six and was an outstanding chair of the scrutiny committee.
Rachel was appointed to the Local Government Association board for environment and transport, advising on policy and representing councillors to Government.
In November 2018 Rachel was diagnosed with multiple myeloma (bone marrow cancer) but chose to continue as a councillor and led the campaign which doubled numbers to 12, teamed up with the Liberal Democrats, and reduced the Conservative administration to controlling the Council through the Chair’s casting vote.
Despite increasing pain and debilitating treatment, Rachel remained active representing her community as well as inspiring the new generation of councillors. She stepped back from leadership but played a key role in the 2023 campaign which took the Green Party to its first ever majority control of a principal authority anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere.
Since then Rachel had served as deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for finance and resources.
Leader of the council, Andy Mellen, paid tribute :
“Rachel was a true community champion, a steadfast advocate for both planet and people, as well as a close and supportive friend. Her death leaves a huge hole in the council, in her community, and in our hearts.”
Long-serving councillors who had served alongside Councillor Eburne throughout her 15 year term added their thoughts :
Councillor Andrew Stringer :
“Rachel Eburne set a new standard of what a community could expect from a Councillor. No one was ever in doubt of her commitment to, and love of public service. Her understanding and passion for environmental causes was second to none, a tragic loss to her family, community, and our Council and the political life of Suffolk. We have lost one of the very best of councillors and a very dear friend. “
Councillor John Matthissen :
“I, and many others, will miss so very much Rachel’s unique combination of clarity, warmth and determined hard work. The very best friend and colleague.”