Flags half-mast after former Torbay councillor dies

Richard Haddock, 66, was facing legal difficulties

Councils in Torbay have joined in tributes to prominent former councillor Richard Haddock, who has died at the age of 66. Flags will be flown at half-mast in his honour.

Mr Haddock’s body was found at his Churston Farm Shop on Sunday. He farmed land in the Churston and Brixham area. He served on Brixham Town Council and Torbay Council.

Brixham Town Council chair Michael Roseveare, vice-chair Steve Leech and town clerk Tracy Hallett issued a joint statement on social media, saying: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of our former councillor, Richard Haddock.

“Richard was a town councillor from 2019 to 2023 and ended his term of office as the council chairperson.  He was a great champion for Brixham and the town council and was passionate in everything he did.

“Richard will be sorely missed by everyone at Brixham Town Council, and our deepest sympathies go to his wife and family at this difficult time.”

Among those to comment on the post was David Shephard, who wrote: “I worked with Richard for a number of years as a member of the Federation of Small Businesses. His enthusiasm for small businesses and his knowledge of rural affairs was of enormous benefit to the FSB not only in Devon but nationally. He will be greatly missed.”

Torbay Council also issued a statement, saying: “Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the family and friends of Richard Haddock.

“Richard represented residents of the Churston and Galmpton ward from 2015 to 2019. He was also executive lead member for business, customer services and town centre regeneration during that time.

“As a mark of respect, flags will be flown at half-mast at the Town Hall in Torquay until sunset on the day of his funeral.”

Mr Haddock had also served in a number of prominent roles with the National Farmers Union, and NFU president Minette Batters was also among those to pay tribute to him.

She said: “Richard was well known to many of us in the south west and throughout the industry for his campaigning work on behalf of farmers and growers.

“He served in a number of high-profile NFU positions, including county chairman in 1999, and south west regional board chairman in 2006/7. He was also chairman of the regional livestock board and NFU national livestock board chairman in the early 2000s.

“On behalf of the NFU and its members, I offer our condolences to Richard’s wife, Caroline, and all his family and friends at this very sad time.”

Police said a man in his sixites was found dead after officers were called to the area on Sunday. They were called following reports of concerns for the welfare of  a man in the area.  The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.

Last week Mr Haddock appeared at Exeter Crown Court and admitted six offences brought by the Environment Agency involving the illegal disposal of waste.