Community campaigner James McGee remembered after death aged 81

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

James McGee, a Wiltshire community campaigner who fought for his wife's care, has died aged 81.

James McGee, of Holbrook Vale, Melksham, died on 13 October aged 81. He had been remembered as a sociable 'man about town' who was always willing to help others.

His daughter Carolyn Hughes said: 'Anyone in Melksham back in the day, everyone knew him. He was the man about town. He'd often be out and about talking to people. He was a very fun person to be around. He was always helping people.'

James became particularly well known for campaigning on behalf of his wife Mary, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1986 and was confined to a wheelchair by 1993. He was her main carer throughout her illness and fought Wiltshire County Council for months over her respite care and help at home. When questions arose over whether Mary could continue living at home, the family sought help from Cherie Blair. Cherie Booth QC offered her support, and the family later visited 10 Downing Street to meet Blair and then-prime minister Tony Blair.

How it is being reported

• Tributes pour in for popular 'man about town’ after deathA well-known Wiltshire community campaigner has died.Gazette & Herald · 23 Oct, 05:00
• Tributes pour in for popular 'man about town’ after deathA well-known Wiltshire community campaigner has died.Wiltshire Times · 23 Oct, 05:00

In this story: James McGee · Mary McGee · Cherie Blair · Tony Blair · Melksham · Wiltshire · Wiltshire County Council

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem