Former Wirral councillor found dead at his home (From Wirral Globe)

Former Wirral councillor found dead at his home

4:01pm Friday 6th July 2012 in News By Craig Manning

Bill Duffey

TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Wirral councillor who died this week.

Bill Duffey, 72, was pronounced dead at his home in Wentworth Avenue, New Brighton, on Thursday night.

Described as a true gentleman, the former Conservative councillor for New Brighton joined UKIP two-and-a-half years ago.

Born in Wallasey, Bill spent his career as a soldier. He was in the Irish Guards, served with the Kings African Rifles and the Rhodesian Army.

He became involved in politics after his return to this country from Zimbabwe and quickly built up a reputation as a dedicated local councillor on Wirral Council.

He has three children and five grandchildren.

Mr Duffey represented the Tory party in New Brighton for seven years until last year’s local elections, when he lost his seat.

Explaining his decision to join UKIP, Mr Duffey said at the time: “I have always been a Conservative – but I don’t think the ones in power now actually are Conservatives.“

Phil Griffiths, chairman of UKIP North West and UKIP Wirral, said: “We are deeply saddened by Bill's death.

“The news came as a terrible shock and he will be greatly missed.

“After joining our branch he became not only an invaluable member always prepared to go that extra mile, but more importantly, a much-valued and loved friend.

“His knowledge on matters political was impressive, as was his fund of anecdotes following his action-packed life.

“Bill always enjoyed sharing a joke over a pint in the pub and, as well as his political astuteness, it was his down-to-earth humour and the twinkle in his eye that endeared him to so many.

“Despite his advancing years and a recent hip replacement he spent many hours during this May's local elections tramping the streets in support of UKIP, whose views he wholeheartedly espoused.

“Personally, in the time I got to know Bill, I found him to be a loyal, reliable friend and brilliant company. A true gentlemen. I will miss him dearly.”

Wirral Conservative group leader Cllr Jeff Green said: “I was terribly sorry to hear of the passing of Bill. This is very sad news, particularly for his family.”

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr Duffey's death.