Tributes paid to former Yarmouth mayor John Burroughs

Former borough councillor and mayor John Burroughs died on Sunday (January 14) at James Paget University Hospital. He had been ill and died peacefully.

For many years, Mr Burroughs was involved in businesses across Norwich, Spain and Great Yarmouth. As a publican, he created successful neighbourhood pubs, including The Lord Nelson in Gorleston and Apollo Tavern in Great Yarmouth.

With his wife Jenny, he also owned shops, including one in Gorleston High Street.

Jenny and John Burroughs in 2005. Picture - Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)From 2006 until 2014, Mr Burroughs represented Gorleston Ward at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, becoming mayor in 2013.

Borough and county councillor Graham Plant described Mr Burroughs as someone who "was proud of the town".

"John was an excellent mayor and really did the town proud," said Mr Plant.

John Borroughs as Great Yarmouth borough mayor in 2013. Picture - Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)"Alongside Bert Collins, John represented Gorleston and was a very good councillor. He was much-admired and John did an awful lot in his public life as he did in private life."

Mr Plant praised Mr Burrough's time at the Lord Nelson pub, introducing a wide variety of real ales and making it a welcoming environment to all.

"John was a man of the town and will be greatly missed," Mr Plant added. "We're all feeling for his wife, Jenny, during this awful time."

Robert Price, chairman of the Great Yarmouth Conservative Association, said: "John was a true gentleman, he was liked and respected by those who knew him. 

"He served the town brilliantly as a councillor and mayor. He was a generous person and did a lot for local charities via his involvement in other organisations both fundraising and organising events. He was always organising a charity event at the Nelson or the Apollo.

"It has been my honour to work with him and be his friend.”

Funeral arrangements for Mr Burroughs' will be announced soon.