Basildon Mayor Luke Mackenzie dies after cancer diagnosis

The Mayor of Basildon, Councillor Luke Mackenzie, has died just one month after sharing his cancer diagnosis.

Councillor Mackenzie, who represented the Pitsea South East ward, passed away this week.

He had served as Mayor of Basildon since 2022, but stepped aside in February before starting chemotherapy. The Mayor did not share any further details about his diagnosis.

Mackenzie was born in Basildon and was a student at Mayflower School and St Teresa’s Primary School.

The Conservative was first elected as a councillor in 2008, and returned to the council again in 2018.

In a statement on social media, Basildon Conservatives wrote:

“Basildon Conservatives are deeply sad to announce the tragic passing of our friend and brother Luke Mackenzie following a short illness. 

“Luke was a friend to many, a dedicated and hardworking public servant, who believed passionately in Basildon. He will be sorely and sincerely missed by his many friends. 

“Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly difficult time.”

In a statement last month, Councillor Mackenzie said:

“While I am still exploring my options, the NHS are opting to start with chemotherapy. I don’t know the impact this will have on me until it starts. I have been told that some people are completely fine with it while others struggle.

“I wish to thank the NHS and its staff for all the support and care they have given me.

“Currently, I am trying to rest, absorb the information and plan the best route forward. For now, this will mean taking a step back from my mayor and councillor duties.”

Deputy Mayor Yetunde Adeshile will continue to conduct duties in the coming weeks.