COLLEAGUES, family and friends have paid tribute to former MP Karen Lumley, who has died.
Karen passed away today, with her loved ones, following a long-term illness.
She will be sorely missed by her husband, Richard, and children, Lizzie and Chris.
As the former Member of Parliament for Redditch, Karen loved the town and had made it her home.
The Lumley family will give notice for her service at a later date, and thank the staff and professionals of the Worcestershire NHS for their kindness and care at this time.
Mrs Lumley served on Redditch Borough Council from 2001 to 2003.
She was elected as MP for the town in 2010, a position she held until she stood down at the general election of 2017 due to ill health.
Paying tribute to her predecessor, Rachel Maclean MP said: “I was hugely saddened to hear the news that Karen Lumley has passed away.
“Karen became the constituency’s second female MP since the seat was created in 1997.
“As her successor, I can say I’m proud to have followed in the footsteps of such a charismatic and strong woman.
“In her time as the Member of Parliament for Redditch, Karen demonstrated tonnes of compassion and a genuine desire to improve people’s lives.
“She will be much missed by many people.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Karen’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
“May she rest in peace.”
In the House of Commons Mrs Lumley sat on the Finance Committee, had been part of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee and the Transport Select Committee.
She was also a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Department of Health.
She is survived by husband, Richard, and children, Lizzie and Chris.
