Ex-councillor who ‘upended politics’ dies after battle with pancreatic cancer

Tony Melia, who was deputy leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council in 2009 and 2010, died peacefully at East Lancashire Hospice on April 3, aged 64, after a “lengthy battle” with pancreatic cancer.

Originally from Bolton, Tony spent time in the British Army before his turn as a councillor.

He was part of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in 1982 and undertook several tours, including the first deployment of army personnel after the Falklands conflict.

After leaving the army, he entered the building trade before turning his interest to politics in the early 2000s.

Tony stood as a Liberal Democrat candidate against Jack Straw in Blackburn in the 2005 general election.

In 2007 he “upended Blackburn with Darwen politics” by founding the For Darwen party after becoming disillusioned with how the town was treated by the borough.

From 2007 to 2010, he was the executive board member (non-portfolio) for corporate projects at the council.

In 2010 he stood for the short-lived Impact Party in Rossendale and Darwen, earning 0.5 per cent of the vote.

In a statement, Tony’s family said: “Tony Melia, who upended Blackburn with Darwen politics with his For Darwen Party has passed away. 

“Tony died peacefully at East Lancashire Hospice on April 3, after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.

“One of five brothers, Tony was born in Bolton, lived, and was educated in the town before later moving to Darwen.

“He joined the British Army, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, in 1982, and undertook several tours, including the first deployment of army personnel after the Falklands conflict.

“A multi-talented and creative individual, he became involved in the building trade after leaving the army.

“His problem-solving skills and technical advice, were often sought after by others in the industry, and he could often be found developing innovative ways of resolving practical problems.

“Tony’s interest in politics evolved during the early 2000s. Tony leaves his wife Maria, and three adult children: Simon, Isabel and Matthew.”

A service and cremation will be held at Pleasington Crematorium on Tuesday, April 15, at 1.30pm.

Family and friends are welcome, but it’s been requested that only family flowers are brought.

Donations if so desired, may be made in memory to Neuroendocrine Cancer UK.

Source – INDIA TV