Flags at Somerset Council buildings were flown at half-mast as a mark of respect to former Chair of Somerset County Council and former County Council, Mendip District Council and Glastonbury Town Councillor Alan Gloak MBE who passed away on Friday 29 December 2023.

Alan Gloak was elected to the former Mendip District Council in 1995 (Glastonbury St Mary Ward) and then to Somerset County Council from 2001-2017 to represent local communities in Glastonbury. Alan served as the Chair of Somerset County Council from 2005-2009 and as an Alderman. Alan was also the Mayor of Glastonbury Town Council from 2003-2004.

Alan was awarded an MBE in 2010 for his services to Local Government. Somerset Council colleagues offer their sincere condolences to family and friends. And they pay tribute to their friend Alan, a man dedicated to duty and with a passion for public service.

Chair of Somerset Council, Councillor Mike Best said: "It was with great sadness we learned of the death of Alan Gloak who served Somerset – and Glastonbury - with such dedication. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."

Councillor Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council, added: " Alan Gloak's contribution to local government in Somerset and to the community of Glastonbury was exemplary. He was always a convivial host, wit and raconteur and it was a privilege to have known him. He will be much missed."