Tributes paid to ‘leading figure’ in local government law Stephen Taylor

Taylor was a well-known local government lawyer and held monitoring officer positions at Stroud District Council, Slough Borough Council, Gloucester City Council, Cornwall Council, and the Isles of Scilly Council, among others.

He graduated in Jurisprudence from the University of Oxford in 1977 and spent more than four decades working in local government, having taken on his first legal role in the sector in 1982.

Announcing the news, Karin Taylor said: "Our much loved husband and father, died yesterday, 6th November 2025, after a courageous battle with bowel cancer."

She added: "Stephen loved his work and shared his experience and knowledge generously, especially through Lawyers In Local Government [LLG], of which he was Branch Secretary for many years and by whom he was thrilled to be awarded the award for Significant Contribution to Local Government Law and Practice in 2023.

"His name lives on through the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Editions of 'Knowles on Local Authority Meetings' which he was thrilled to co-edit and proud to find a copy of in the Bodleian Library.

"Stephen's family and his work were the two great constants of his life. He was a loving father and husband, known for his calm presence, his humour, and his endless supply of good advice. Ever curious, he relished a problem to solve and brought warmth, wit and steady wisdom to everyone around him. For those who knew him or worked with him over the years, we would be grateful for any memories you may wish to share.

"If you would like to join us in giving Stephen the big send-off he deserves, please do contact either [Karin Taylor] or [Lucy Taylor] directly and we will gladly provide you with the details when they are available."

The news led to scores of tributes online, with former LLG president, Rachel McKoy, describing Taylor as "kind, witty, generous and a massive supporter of LG and our family".

She added: "Personally he was a true sponsor and kept close to all my career antics. We shared lots of laughter over the years about the craziness of scenarios in the Monitoring Officer world.

"I really enjoyed my invitation to his beloved Oxford & Cambridge Club for lunch - a right of passage.

"He will be so missed. A wonderful man, professional, and friend."

Gavin Jones, lead commissioner at Slough Borough Council, said: "The saddest news. I really enjoyed working with Stephen at Swindon and Slough. A huge intellect, a wicked sense of humour and a loyal friend. He will be missed by many.

Paul Turner, current LLG president, said the sector had "sadly lost someone who made a great contribution to the profession".

A spokesperson for Lawyers in Local Government added:  "LLG are deeply saddened and bereft to learn of the sad passing of Stephen. He was a leading figure in the local government legal community and simply put a brilliant gentleman. Our condolences to you and the family at this difficult time."

Simon Goacher, Head of Local Government and partner at Weightmans, meanwhile said that Taylor was "always a pleasure to work with and talk to", adding: "He was so knowledgeable about and committed to local government.

"He did everything with a great sense of humour and I always looked forward to catching up with him at LLG events. He will be much missed but very fondly remembered."

Adam Carey