Memorial bench unveiled in honour of 'true Ilfracombe gentleman’

A commemorative bench has been unveiled in memory of a tireless champion of Ilfracombe who dedicated decades of service to the town.

The bench overlooking the Ilfracombe Football Club pitch was commissioned to honour Mike Edmunds, a former mayor, long-serving councillor and freeman of the town.

Mike passed away on March 18 aged 81 and is greatly missed by many in the town, having served as a councillor for 40 years, representing Ilfracombe at town, district and county council level.

He was also involved with numerous local organisations and community groups throughout his life, including the football club, Ilfracombe in Bloom, the Herxheim Twinning Association and the League of Friends of the Tyrrell Hospital among many others.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Mayor of Ilfracombe, Councillor Mark Fay described Mike as a “much-loved and well-known member of the Ilfracombe community” who gave a great deal of his time and energy to the town and cared deeply about its people and future.

Following Mike’s passing in March 2026, fellow councillors remembered him as a strong advocate for Ilfracombe who quietly got things done and remained committed to representing residents even during periods of ill health.

The plaque on the bench, engraved by Mike’s cousin Rob Lihou, fittingly says: ‘In memory of Mike Edmunds 1944 – 2026, a true gentleman who loved Ilfracombe’.

Mike’s stepdaughter Sam said: “Mike is deeply missed by all his family. He was a truly special man, with a kind heart, a generous spirit and always had time for everyone.

“Ilfracombe Football Club held a special place in Mike’s heart, so a bench overlooking the club he loved is a fitting and lasting tribute to his memory.

“We hope it will be a place where family, friends and others in the community can take a moment to pause and reflect. Mike will always hold a special place in our hearts and will never be forgotten.”

Mayor Mark Fay said: “Mike was a much-loved and well-known member of the Ilfracombe community. He gave so much of his time and energy to the town and, above all, cared deeply about the people who lived here and about the future of Ilfracombe.

“This bench is a simple but lasting tribute to Mike. It gives us a place to sit, to pause, to enjoy this wonderful town, and perhaps to share a story or a memory of him.

“A memorial like this is not just about remembering someone who has passed away. It is also about recognising the contribution they made during their lifetime and the mark they left on the community they cared about.

“I hope that, over the years, many people will sit here without necessarily knowing Mike personally but will see his name and perhaps ask who he was. In that way, his memory will continue to be part of Ilfracombe.”