Shock and sadness as popular Torbay councillor Patrick Joyce dies

Tributes have been paid to a "motivated" and respected Torbay councillor who has died. Councillor Patrick Joyce, from the Prosper Torbay Group, passed away on Friday, April 12.

Each of Torbay Council ’s political group leaders have paid tribute to Cllr Joyce after his unexpected death. Cllr Katya Maddison, Leader of Prosper Torbay Group, said: “Patrick was a motivated and very competent member who wanted to help bring about change in the bay, but his recent health breakdown meant he could not do everything he might have hoped to do.

“I will miss him a great deal, as will many other friends in and out of the council. My deepest sympathies to his partner and family.”

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Leader of the council, Cllr Dave Thomas, said: "The whole Conservative group were shocked and saddened to hear of Patrick’s passing. He was extremely keen on representing his community and achieved that aim in May 2023, when he was elected as one of the Wellswood councillors.

“We fondly remember the great effort and passion he had for Adult Social Care and Health issues. He was a natural in his role from his very first day in the job as Chairman of the Scrutiny Board.

“Our deepest condolences to his family and friends and all those who were touched by his presence and work.”

Cllr Steve Darling, Leader of Liberal Democrat Group, said; “Patrick was a man of integrity who put his community and council work first. He was very well respected by councillors across the chamber.

"Liberal Democrat councillors and myself are shocked and upset at the passing of Patrick. I only spoke to him a couple of days before his passing, and he was full of ideas and plans for the future.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family at this very difficult time.”

Cllr Darren Cowell, leader of the Independent Group, said; “Both myself and Cllr Nicole Amil were truly saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Patrick. He was passionate in his role as a councillor and particularly as Overview and Scrutiny Lead for Adults.

“We both considered him in high regard as did his councillor and officer colleagues. Our sincere condolences go to his family and numerous friends.”

Cllr Patrick Joyce was elected in 2023 to the Wellswood Ward. He served as Overview and Scrutiny Lead for Adults, Community Services, Public Health, and Inequalities.

He also held roles as chairman of Adult Social Care and Health Overview Scrutiny Sub-Board, Member of Licensing Committee and Overview and Scrutiny Board, and was on the Local Safeguarding Adults Board.

As a mark of respect, the flag at Torquay Town Hall will be flown at half-mast until sunset on the day of his funeral.