Rutland’s longstanding council leader Roger Begy OBE died on Monday following a short battle with cancer. He was 72.

An Oxford graduate, Cllr Begy rapidly ascended in the private sector and became a managing director at the young age of 30.

During his career he held a number of senior roles in leading national companies, such as Green Giant and British Sugar, and after he retired he continued to take an interest in entrepreneurism, learning and skills.

It was thanks to his work in the latter field that he was awarded an OBE for services to Further Education in 2008.

Cllr Begy became involved in local politics in 1995 when he was elected as Ward Member for Langham, and in 2003 he became both the Ward Member for Greetham and the leader of Rutland County Council.

His family describe him as a loving, funny, supportive father, husband and grandfather with a passion for food and wine.

Helen Briggs, chief executive of Rutland County Council, said: ‘We are all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Cllr Begy. He was a dedicated Ward Member and committed Leader who worked tirelessly to drive the council forward and provide for residents.

‘His passion, enthusiasm and input right across the council have all helped to make Rutland the prosperous, independent County that is today. His loss will be keenly felt by those who worked closest with him and the condolences of everyone at Rutland County Council go out to his family.’

Sir Alan Duncan, MP for Rutland and Melton, said: ‘Roger was an exceptional leader of the council who was devoted to Rutland. He was a larger than life character with a keen eye for detail and a great sense of humour. His thirteen years as Leader and his many years as a ward councillor helped secure Rutland’s future as an independent county. We are lucky to have had his service and he will be enormously missed.’