Funeral details for Rob Windsor, socialist councillor

Arrangements have been announced for the funeral of one of Coventry's most popular former councillors.

Hundreds of mourners are expected at the service for Rob Windsor, the Socialist Party councillor for St Michael's, which will be held Coventry Cathedral at 1pm on Friday, February 17th.

The service will be led by the Bishop of Wolverhampton, Clive Gregory, the former vicar of St Peter's Church in Hillfields.

Workmates of Mr Windsor, who was employed for almost 20 years at Coventry's main homelessness charity, the Cyrenians, together with colleagues from the Socialist Party locally and nationally, will speak about Mr Windsor's life.

Family and friends will attend a short service at Canley Crematorium later in the afternoon and the mourners are expected to continue Mr Windsor's 'wake' in a number of city venues during the rest of the afternoon and evening (see Facebook group mentioned below for details of these).

Councillor Dave Nellist (Socialist, St Michael's) said today:

"From the numbers ringing, writing and sending e-mails, we expect hundreds to attend to celebrate Rob's quite remarkable life.

"We are all desperately upset at his passing at such an early age, but he achieved so much whilst he was here that we want to celebrate".

A Facebook group which has been set up with further details, "Rob Windsor - Funeral & Memorial", says of Mr Windsor:

"Rob represented St Michael's Ward for many years, organised the campaign against the Poll Tax in the city and beyond, and led innumerable campaigns in defence of working class people in Coventry. Rob had been ill for some time, but characteristically and fittingly had continued to defy all odds right until the end. Our thoughts are with Rob's family and friends, his partner Isla, his work colleagues and all those who knew him."

A Book of Remembrance will be available for people to sign in the reception of the Council House, Earl Street from Monday, February 13th up till the day of the funeral.

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