URGENT UPDATE: The community of Newark is in mourning following the sudden passing of Laurence Goff, revered as the ‘councillor of the people’. Goff, a former Newark Mayor and dedicated community champion, died in hospital on January 13, 2024, leaving a profound impact on all who knew him.
His death has sent shockwaves through the town, where he was celebrated for his tireless efforts to support residents and improve local initiatives. Goff’s legacy includes raising over £22,000 for community projects, most notably the On Freedom’s Wings Lancaster Bomber sculpture, which he championed for years.
Goff’s commitment to Newark was evident in his various roles, including serving as Mayor from 2022 to 2023. His fundraising efforts culminated in a sponsored tandem skydive in 2024, showcasing his dedication to the community. Charlie White, chairman of the Bomber County Gateway Trust, stated: “Laurence has given enormous amounts of time… He was a truly remarkable feat by one man.”
As a long-time volunteer with Newark St John Ambulance, Goff was known for his compassion, particularly towards the elderly and those in need. His commitment to first aid was personal; when he fell ill, volunteers from the charity were by his side, echoing the support he had always extended to others. Operations Manager Philip Jessop remarked, “His caring nature shone through. He will be missed by all our volunteers and so many people across the town.”
Goff was also a fixture at charitable events, spending Christmas Day providing first aid and serving meals at The Salvation Army. Newark Mayor Barbara Corrigan described him as a “true gentleman” whose dedication to service was unmatched. “Newark has lost one of a kind,” she added.
His political journey included stints on the Newark and Sherwood District Council from 2019 to 2023. Council leader Paul Peacock highlighted Goff’s tireless efforts to improve health facilities and support vulnerable populations. “His deep compassion and commitment to those most in need will be sorely missed,” Peacock stated.
Goff was a prominent member of the Newark Labour Party, recognized for his resilience and unwavering dedication. Lisa Geary, secretary of the Newark Constituency Labour Party, noted, “Laurence gave decades of service… He is irreplaceable.”
His impact extended beyond politics; he was a passionate advocate for community causes, including the Save Our Park campaign, where he gathered hundreds of signatures to protect local green spaces. Residents praised him as a “100% councillor of the people.”
Reflecting on Goff’s contributions, Nikki Burley, CEO of Newark Emmaus Trust, stated, “His spirit and legacy will live on in the work he helped to make possible.” His commitment to those facing homelessness stemmed from his own experiences, having been homeless at just 16 years old.
As the town processes this devastating loss, tributes continue to pour in. Robert Jenrick, Newark MP, remembered Goff as a fixture in local events, saying, “He was everywhere! Newark was his life.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Sam Smith, a Conservative representative, acknowledged their political differences but expressed admiration for Goff’s dedication to the community. “He was a true community champion,” Smith stated, recalling their last encounter just days before his passing.
As the community gathers to honor Goff’s memory, his contributions as a volunteer, fundraiser, and advocate for the people of Newark will never be forgotten. His legacy is one of compassion, service, and unwavering commitment, a legacy that will inspire future generations.
Stay tuned for more updates as the community of Newark comes together to celebrate the life of Laurence Goff, a man whose heart was always in the right place.
