Tributes paid to former Fenland District Council chief executive

Fenland District Council is set to hold a minute’s silence next month as a mark of respect to former chief executive of the Council, Norman Topliss.

Norman died peacefully at his home in March surrounded by his family on Sunday November 6 at the age of 76 years.

Paying tribute, the chair of Fenland District Council, Councillor Alex Miscandlon, said:"Norman was a dedicated and hard-working public servant and his 40 years of service across multiple local government authorities stands as a testament to his commitment in serving local communities.”

Norman first began his career in local government at Ilkeston Borough Council in 1962. He went on to start a finance career with Peterborough City Council before joining Fenland District Council in 1974.

Norman continued this finance career with the council, engaging in a number of roles, including deputy treasurer and treasurer.

In 1990, Norman became the director of finance and administration at Fenland working alongside the then chief executive, Ernie Thompson.

Norman succeeded Ernie as chief executive in February 1993; a role in which he remained until his retirement

in 2002.

The minute's silence will be held before Fenland District Council's next council meeting on Monday December 12 to recognise his achievements and his time at the council.

Norman leaves behind his wife Val, daughters Sam, Julie and Kate and six grandchildren.

His funeral will be held at Fenland Crematorium on Wednesday (23) at 12.30pm, black tie is optional. Donations can be made in his memory for Head to Toe and Macmillan Cancer Support.