Remembering Councillor Melanie Vigo di Gallidoro

Councillor Jessica Fleming, Chairman of Suffolk County Council, said:

"It is with deep sorrow that I share the news of the passing of our much-loved colleague and friend, Councillor Melanie Vigo di Gallidoro.

"Melanie was first elected to represent the Pakefield Division at Suffolk County Council in May 2017 and was re-elected in 2021.

"From June 2021 to May 2024, Melanie brought her enthusiasm and insight to the role of Deputy Cabinet Member for Protected Landscapes and Archaeology. She had a real appreciation for Suffolk’s heritage and natural beauty, and she approached her responsibilities with care, thoughtfulness, and quiet determination.

"Over the years, she made a significant and lasting contribution to the Council’s work, but far more than that her commitment to the Broads Authority and the Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority was appreciated by all.

"Those who knew Melanie will remember her not only for her service, but for her warmth, kindness, and sense of fun. She had a rare ability to connect with all people, and her spirit and genuine decency transcended politics. She was, quite simply, lovely to work with and to know.

"Her loss will be deeply felt across the Council and by all who had the privilege of calling her a friend.

"On behalf of the Council, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to Melanie’s family, friends, and all who were close to her at this very difficult time.

"We will remember Melanie with immense gratitude for her dedication to Suffolk and with affection for the warmth and humanity."

Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:

"Melanie was a truly valued and much-loved member of Suffolk County Council, who cared deeply about Pakefield and Lowestoft and coastal communities.

"As the local councillor for Pakefield since 2017, Melanie brought energy, optimism, and compassion to everything she did.

"She was passionate about her work and always had time for others - whether supporting residents, contributing to committees, or championing Suffolk’s heritage and natural environment as Deputy Cabinet Member for Protected Landscapes and Archaeology.

"Melanie had a warmth and kindness that made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her positivity and generosity of spirit reached across political boundaries, and she was respected and admired by colleagues from all sides of the Council.

"Her passing is a tremendous loss to Suffolk County Council and to the many people who had the privilege of knowing her. My thoughts, and those of my group are with Melanie’s family and friends at this very sad time."