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Leader of council says 'immense gratitude' owed to Douglas North MHK 

Picture credit: Emma Draper/LDRS

John Wannenburgh worked to make capital a 'better place to live'

The leader of Douglas Council says he owes an 'immense' amount of gratitude to Douglas North MHK John Wannenburgh. 

Devon Watson says he did everything he could to support residents of Willaston and make the capital a 'better place to live'. 

He added that he was 'unbelievably straight talking' and fought for the rights of homeowners in his constituency. 

Mr Wannenburgh died 'peacefully in his sleep' on Sunday night (2 August). 

Councillor Watson described the backbench politician as an 'incredibly hard-working' MHK and public figure.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him:

The Mayor of Douglas Steven Crellin said: "John was widely respected for his contribution to public life and for the steadfast way in which he represented the people of north Douglas.

"He took a keen interest in the work of Douglas City Council, acknowledged the important role local government plays in the capital and he was always willing to work collaboratively on initiatives that improved life for residents and supported many of our community events.

"His passing is a great loss to our Island and he will be remembered with warmth and appreciation."

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