Tributes to Bill Bendyshe-Brown, who died after cancer battle

Known to many as simply B3, Bill was a former Wycombe district councillor for 16 years from 1999 to 2015 and more recently a Buckinghamshire County Councillor for seven years from 2013-2020, representing the Risborough area for both.

He was past chairman of Wycombe District Council for the 2010-2011 year and for many years also the Armed Forces champion at Buckinghamshire County Council.

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He also represented The Risboroughs on the new Buckinghamshire Council. 

He served on a number of committees including various select committees, the Regulatory & Audit Committee, Bucks and Milton Keynes Fire Authority, the Chilterns Conservation Board and the Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel.  

Cllr Bendyshe-Brown championed local causes and most recently, alongside Cllr Carl Etholen, set up a community interest company to try and get the Bledlow Ridge tip reopened. 

Cllr Bendyshe-Brown pictured with MP Steve Baker in 2011

But he was fighting a battle against cancer at the same time. 

Council leader Martin Tett said his death was a "real loss to Buckinghamshire". 

Buckinghamshire Council chairman Richard Scott said he was devastated by the sad news.

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He said: "As well as being a fellow councillor, Bill was also a friend. He had a unique approach and was totally dedicated to serving his community, which he had done so for over two decades. 

"On behalf of everyone at Buckinghamshire Council, can I convey our sincerest condolences to his wife, Eugenie and his family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time.

"I always admired Bill for his robust and forthright approach and for his contribution to council business. His commitment to his local residents was unwavering and I know he was hugely liked and respected. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him."

Cllr Bill Bendyshe-Brown

Richard added: "Tributes to Bill have been flooding in from fellow councillors and colleagues. He was held in extremely high regard and the comments I have received reflect his warmth, kindness, optimism, friendship and enthusiasm.”

His councillor colleague David Knights said: The passing of friend and colleague Bill Bendyshe-Brown is so sad. B3 helped me to get elected to WDC in 2015 and then @BucksCouncil. His love and service to the community of #risborough and @Princesris and surroundings has been unstinting and selfless right to the end. RIP Bill x"

Buckingham MP Greg Smith added: "Incredibly sad to hear Risboroughs Councillor Bill Bendyshe-Brown passed away this afternoon. Thoughts are with his family. May he rest in peace."

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And Cllr Steve Bowles described him as a "true gentleman" who "worked tirelessly for his residents". 

Members of the public who were helped by councillor Bendyshe-Brown have also paid tribute. 

One said Princes Risborough has lost a "true gent", adding: "He was supportive to all and showed true kindness and compassion. My heart goes out to his dear family." 

Further tributes will be paid to Bill at the next full council meeting on February 24.