Tributes paid to former Fenland District Councillor

Tributes are being paid to a former Fenland councillor known to many as “Mr Wimblington”.

Paul Jolley, who was always known as Pop, died after a battle with cancer on Sunday morning.

Pop, who was married to Jenny, will be remembered for his tireless work for the village he loved, in particular the setting up of the Parkfield playing field.

He served as a Fenland District Councillor for three terms initially being elected in 1999 and then being re-elected in 2003. After that Pop took a break from the hurly burly of local politics but was soon back at Fenland Hall when he was re-elected in 2011.

Pop served as portfolio holder for environment and then was put in charge of leisure, tourism and markets in 2012 – a role he relished.

During his time as elected member he also served as chair of the council’s scrutiny committee.

Pop served as a parish councillor for Wimblington and held the position of chair for a number years. He also had strong links with Manea, living in the village for many years before returning to Wimblington two years ago.

He was the driving force behind the setting up of the Parkfield and for 28 years he led a dedicated team of staff looking after the clubhouse and the pitches, ensuring everything was maintained to a high standard.

Fellow Wimblington councillor Maureen Davis, who served alongside Pop for over 15 years, said: “Pop was very proud of Parkfield. It opened in 1995 and has gone from strength to strength, now boasting four senior and three junior football teams, two senior and one junior cricket team plus archery, netball and many other teams.

“Pop was always fundraising for the next project.

“On a personal note I am so sad we have lost Pop. He was a larger than life character but he was also simply, Mr Wimblington, doing so much for the village and Parkfield. If help was required in any direction it was always ‘we will ask Pop’ – he is going to be sorely missed, and our thoughts go out to Jenny at this sad time.”