Edward Baliszewski
1952-2008

Fomer Westlea Board member and Chair, Edward Baliszewski, has died aged 55, following a long illness.

Edward contributed a great deal of time and energy to Westlea life between 1998 and 2007; he had served as an independent Board member for nine years before stepping down in September. He was Chair of the Board for three years between 2003 and 2006, during which time he led Westlea in strengthening its position as one of the area's leading affordable housing providers and agreeing significant plans to develop in the future.

As Chair, he represented Westlea on many occasions – at opening ceremonies for new housing developments, for example – and led the celebrations of Westlea's tenth anniversary at an event in Chippenham in late 2005 at which, along with the housing association's longest serving resident, he cut a giant birthday cake. On that day and many others, Edward's characteristic charm, good humour and natural ability to get along with people made him a fun and interesting person to be around. We all send our condolences to his family at this sad time.

• Edward's funeral took place on Wednesday 27th February at St Thomas More Church, Marlborough, followed by a private burial. Donations, if desired, for the Prospect Hospice or The Orchid Trust, c/o Dianne Mackinder Funeral Service, Wagon Yard, London Road, Marlborough SN8 1LH. Tel: 01672 512444.