Former Oxfordshire County Council leader Ian Hudspeth dies peacefully at home
Tributes are being paid to much-loved former council leader awarded OBE
Ian Hudspeth, former leader of Oxfordshire County Council, has died peacefully at his home in Bladon near Woodstock.
Councillor Hudspeth served as council leader from 2012 to 2021, becoming one of only three leaders of the authority since the adoption of the cabinet system in 2001.
After a career in local government, which spanned almost two decades, he was awarded the OBE in 2021 for his contributions to public service.
“Hard-working leader”
Ian Hudspeth was first elected as a county councillor in 2005, representing the Woodstock area. He had previously served on Bladon Parish Council and West Oxfordshire District Council, fostering close ties with his local community. He lived in Bladon with his wife and daughter.
Lorna Baxter, Oxfordshire County Council's Deputy Chief Executive, reflected on her experience working with Ian during his tenure as leader.
“Ian Hudspeth was a hard-working leader who had the trust and support of his staff,” Lorna said.
“He was a kind-hearted figure with a strong sense of humour who was glad to hold conversations with officers from the most senior to the most junior. It came naturally to him to walk around County Hall and speak to everyone about all subjects whether it be complex issues facing the council or the football results from the previous weekend.
“He will be deeply missed throughout Oxfordshire but especially so in Bladon, where he was a familiar figure and was proud to serve in a village that is the burial place of Winston Churchill.”
Remembering Ian Hudspeth
Current Oxfordshire County Council Leader, Councillor Liz Leffman also paid tribute to Ian’s service and character.
“Ian Hudspeth had the rare gift of being able to combine being a serious politician while being affable and approachable to all,” Cllr Leffman said.
"He served as leader during some tough times for the authority but represented the county with distinction while capably fulfilling all of the responsibilities that come with the role. His name is guaranteed high prominence in the history of Oxfordshire’s politics and the county council.
"Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family, and appropriate tributes will be paid to Cllr Hudspeth at the next meeting of the county council in 2026."