Following the sad news of the passing of Ventnor Town Clerk, David Bartlett, and the tribute paid to him by former Mayor of Ventnor, Stewart Blackmore, more tributes have arrived at the offices of News OnTheWight.
Alison Killick, the Acting Town Clerk at Ventnor Town Council, shared these words,
“I started work for Ventnor Town Council as David’s PA in October 2010.
“During those initial months, he and I worked from the upstairs offices at the Winter Gardens. David was also clerk at Brading Town Council, where he would work for a few hours early every morning, before coming into Ventnor to clerk for Ventnor Town Council.
“On a blustery, wet February day in 2011 together we moved Ventnor Town Council to what was then known as the Coastal Centre, renting one room from the Isle of Wight Council.
“And the rest is history….the now wonderful Salisbury Gardens building, with office space let out to tenants, four rooms let to Ventnor Neighbourhood Police and the Green Room providing a large space for community groups, Town Council meetings and other events – was entirely the brainchild of David Bartlett, with councillors serving on VTC at that time.”
“David was the best boss”
Alison went on to say,
“A man who liked his coffee strong and black, such a brilliant man who nurtured and encouraged me as I achieved my CiLCA qualification to become Assistant Town Clerk – David was the best boss.
“Throughout his working life for Ventnor Town Council, David faced challenges and opposition, but his tireless enthusiasm, determination of will and hard-working ethic always was for the better-good of Ventnor.
“David is very much missed and I feel extremely privileged to have known this incredible man.”
Toogood: His passing is a great loss in many ways
Former Ventnor Mayor, Steph Toogood, had these words to say about her time working with David,
“I feel privileged to have known and worked with Ventnor Town Clerk David Bartlett as deputy Mayor 2021/22 and Mayor 2022/23.
“His passing is a great loss in many ways. I found him to be a solutions man – not a problem man. He worked tirelessly for Ventnor Town Council and the Ventnor Community despite his advancing years. Since his retirement last year he has enjoyed new opportunities with hobbies.
“David’s legacy as Town Clerk for Ventnor deserves appreciation. The projects that David undertook ensured that Ventnor Town Council were often at the blueprint adopted by others. David was so aware of poverty and deprivation that this was often his focus with wonderful results.
“David’s presence will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but he will not be forgotten!”
Cooper: He steered the council into a much improved situation
The current mayor of Ventnor, Steve Cooper, gave this tribute,
“It was with great sadness to hear the passing of David Bartlett, Ventnor Town Council’s former Town Clerk.
“David took the helm at a very challenging time for the council and steered the council into a much improved situation, leaving the legacy of the magnificent Salisbury Gardens building for future generations to reap the rewards of his enlightened thinking.
“He will be sadly missed by all staff, councillors, and the community alike. Our warmest wishes go to his family at this difficult time.”
David’s funeral will be held on Friday 23rd February at 1:30pm at the Crematorium.
Article edit
5pm 16th Jan 2024 – Details of funeral service added
