Sadness at sudden death of ‘perfect gentleman’, 67

A councillor who has been described by colleagues as a "perfect gentleman" has died suddenly aged 67.

Cllr Stephen Dehnel, who had represented the Downs North ward for Ashford Borough Council since 2015, was about to become the portfolio holder for culture in the authority’s cabinet.

The Conservative councillor and Kingsnorth resident died suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, May 24.

Council leader Gerry Clarkson paid tribute to his colleague.

“Stephen was a dear friend and colleague, a man of immense integrity, loyalty and a strong sense of duty,” he said.

“He was a perfect gentleman who actually enriched the lives of all those who came into contact with him.”

Following a distinguished military career, Cllr Dehnel held a number of positions at the council alongside serving the Chilham, Old Wives Lees, Molash and Godmersham areas of the borough.

He was the deputy portfolio holder for legal and democracy between 2017 and 2019 and the deputy portfolio holder for planning in 2016 and 2017.

Cllr Dehnel also acted as a chairman of the standards committee and compliance and enforcement board as well as a member champion for military covenant and ceremonial liaison.

In his military covenant role, Cllr Dehnel was instrumental in arranging Remembrance Sunday events, including the Fields of Battle, Lands of Peace exhibition last year.

He was due to become portfolio holder for culture following the district council elections last month.

Former mayor Jessamy Blanford said Cllr Dehnel made a big impact in a short time, saying: “Stephen was only on the council for four years but in that time he made his mark in an expert in military planning.

“He helped the council celebrate the end of the First World War in a professional and heart-warming manner.”