We are all saddened to learn of Ian’s death on Tuesday 22nd March after a long battle with cancer.

Ian led a fascinating life and had a wealth of experience he was happy to share. A well known and popular figure within the Party. He was  known for his generosity of spirit and dry humour, we will miss him.

He joined the Labour Group  on Exeter City Council when he became Councillor Quance after a successful campaign in 2019 to be elected to represent the Pennsylvania Ward.  As a councillor he served on a number of Scrutiny Committees as well as Licensing and Audit & Governance and last year.

Last year he was appointed as Exeter’s Deputy Lord Mayor.

Trish Oliver, Exeter’s Mayor said she was saddened by the passing of her “good friend”.

“Rarely have I met someone whose presence, words, and actions touched me in the way Ian’s did, and I know I am but one of many people who loved his fierce honesty and humbleness of spirit.

“With a bone dry sense of humour, and an enchanting way of telling stories, he inspired so many to work for a fairer, a better, a more compassionate world,” she said.

“In the New Year, Ian spoke of life, saying ‘don’t just waste it, squeeze every ounce of juice out of it. Be good to yourselves. Love is the answer’. My thoughts are with Ian’s family and close friends at this saddest of times. Rest peacefully Ian, after a life well lived.”

Before becoming a councillor, Ian spent a number of years working for the City Council, where he headed up the authority’s Bereavement Services Department.

Council Leader Phil Bialyk said:

“Ian was not just a political friend but a personal friend and we are all saddened by his death. He battled cancer for over two years. He has a lovely, strong and supportive family and will be greatly missed.”

Ian proudly carrying the Exeter Labour banner at Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival & Museum in 2017.