CABINET member and Cllr for Ethandune Jerry Wickham has announced that he has resigned from his role as cabinet member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Public Protection.

Cllr Wickham is suffering from worsening advanced prostate cancer.

In the message he said: “My final morning with my cabinet colleagues before resigning due to worsening of my advanced prostate cancer. Enjoyed great times with the team of hardworking genuine people.”

Messages of support came from other councillors who highlighted his professionalism and work to invest in prevention services for public health.

Speaking earlier in the year he stressed prevention was key to reducing the strain on health services. He said: “It is key to how we go forward as a society in improving the health of our population, and if we get that right the demands will be reduced on the health service.”

Co-workers and friends called Cllr Wickham an inspiration, who will be sorely missed within the cabinet.

Cllr Jon Hubbard said: “I am desperately sad to hear this news, both on a personal level for you and on a professional one for the council. You have been an example of what a community politician should be and I will always be grateful for your help with the MND Charter.”

Mark Smith, chief executive of Chippenham Town Council tweeted: “Jerry, sending good wishes from all at Chippenham Town Council and myself. I’m sure that your common sense approach and pragmatism will be missed by your cabinet colleagues and officers alike.”

Tracy Daszkiewicz, Wiltshire Council’s director of public health added: “You’ve proven we are greater than the sum of our parts and have led immense change. The pleasure all ours, inspirational leader.”