Council pays tribute to Hazel Ball

Staff and Councillors at Exeter City Council have been saddened by the news of the death of one of its former directors, Hazel Ball.

Hazel died on Saturday morning following a short illness.

She retired from the City Council in 2012 as Director of Community and Environment . She spent 35 years working for the local authority, joining in 1976 and working up through the ranks. She became Head of Environmental Health Services in 1996 and then a Strategic Director in 2001.

Council Leader Pete Edwards paid tribute to Hazel. "I am very saddened by this news," he said. "It is sadly ironic that she took early retirement and then became desperately ill. Hazel was a  long serving member of staff and showed great loyalty to the City Council.  I would like to send my condolences to all of her family."

Karime Hassan, Chief Executive and Growth Director, said: "Hazel was an outstanding public servant with an impeccable career at the City Council. It hits us all when something like this happens. Hazel will be sadly missed."

On her twitter page Hazel'sprofile said: "I used to be a busy early retiree. Now receiving palliative care for cancer. Life is still good and small treats with friends and family wonderful. Thanks NHS."

Marc Astley, The Exeter Daily's editorial director, said: "Hazel was one of the first people I met when I arrived in Exeter and I bumped into her just a few months ago.

"She didn't mention her illness but, as usual, was interested in how I was doing and what I was up to. She was one of those people you instantly warmed to."