Wilmslow Councillor Chris Hilliard, who represented the Lacey Green Ward on both Cheshire East and Wilmslow Town Council, has sadly passed away.
Wilmslow Town Council Mayor Councillor Sally Harrison said "Wilmslow has lost a passionate advocate and a true community spirit.
"Wilmslow Town Council is deeply saddened by the passing of Councillor Chris Hilliard — a dedicated public servant, a passionate advocate, and a deeply valued member of both our council and the wider community.
"Chris brought a distinctive energy and perspective to public service, combining deep professional insight with an unwavering commitment to the people of Wilmslow. Chris's contributions extended far beyond the town council — from championing cycling and sustainable transport, to promoting access to justice and digital inclusion through both professional and voluntary work.
"As a long-standing resident of Lacey Green, Chris had a genuine and infectious enthusiasm for local life. Chris played an instrumental role in improving Wilmslow's town centre, parks, and transport infrastructure, and was a driving force behind community organisations such as Transition Wilmslow and Cycle Wilmslow. Most recently, Chris had been actively involved in supporting Wilmslow's first 'Pride' event — a reflection of Chris's inclusive values and forward-thinking approach.
"Chris's role in Highways was pivotal in getting the Lacey Green pilot tree planting project agreed, which will start discussions around replacing the many missing trees in our area. This dedication not only helps for a future plan to shape greener, more welcoming streets, but will also foster lasting connections within the community. Along the way, strong friendships were formed – a testament to the shared commitment and collaboration that made it all possible.
"Chris's independence of thought, kindness, and practical creativity left a lasting impact on colleagues, constituents, and friends alike. Chris stood for election not for personal gain, but to serve — and did so with integrity, imagination, and heart. The friendships he forged were not just incidental, but a reflection of the kind of person he was: open-hearted, sincere, and deeply committed to community.
"Wilmslow has lost a thoughtful councillor, a tireless campaigner, and a true community champion. Chris will be greatly missed — especially in those moments when a well-timed pun would light up the room, often followed by a collective groan and a smile.
"On behalf of the Town Council and the people of Wilmslow, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Chris's family, friends, and all who shared in Chris's vision for a better, fairer, and more connected community."
In a joint statement, the leader and deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, councillors Nick Mannion and Michael Gorman, and the leader of the Cheshire East Conservative group, councillor Stewart Gardiner, said: "It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the sudden passing of Councillor Chris Hilliard.
"Chris was dedicated to their role as ward Councillor for Wilmslow Lacey Green – a role they were elected to in May 2023 – and served with passion, kindness, integrity, and a deep commitment to the local community.
"In particular, Chris used their role as ward councillor and as the council's active travel champion and member of the highways and transport committee to passionately advocate for a better and more integrated transport system that supports people to use more sustainable forms of transport.
"Chris was a keen cyclist and genuinely wanted to make a difference.
"You could see Chris' passion through their interactions with both fellow councillors and the communities Chris served. Chris will be deeply missed.
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Chris' family, friends, and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
"The council will be flying flags at half-mast at its main offices as a mark of respect."
Residents of Wilmslow issued the following statement
"On behalf of Residents Of Wilmslow we express our deepest condolences on the sudden passing of Chris Hilliard.
"Chris was a cherished member of the community, known for their commitment to social justice, kindness, dedication and unwavering spirit - as well as never missing an opportunity to encourage us all to get on our bikes !
"But more importantly Chris was a friend to us all - there have been times when we have all been offered Chris's support, words of wisdom or just someone to talk to; and it is hard to believe that there will be no more opportunities to be amazed by Chris's seemingly impossible ability to share knowledge on even the most obscure issues.
"Chris's contributions have left an indelible mark on our town as a whole and us as a group, and their absence will be deeply felt by the community as a whole.
"We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Chris's family and friends during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the memories of a remarkable, but sadly too short, life and the legacy left behind.
"Chris will always be remembered with great respect and affection by Residents Of Wilmslow."
