It is with great sadness that we report the death, on the 17th of January, of Vaughan Rees OBE.
Vaughan served as Chairman of Brighton and Hove Arts Council from 2014 to 2017.
Vaughan’s professional career was in the civil service, rising through the ranks to become Principal Private Secretary to Tim Renton, Baron Renton of Mount Harry, Conservative Party politician. When Tim Renton retired Vaughan then worked for David Mellor MP as Secretary to the Hall of Arts and Sciences, where he served for nearly 20 years. His reputation and interest in the arts led him to be appointed Secretary to the Corporation of the Royal Albert Hall, a role he fulfilled for 19 years. He finally retired aged 71.
His interest and contribution to the arts did not stop there. He was patron of the Dome and Festival, the Brighton Philharmonic and of Create Music. He strongly advocated for the benefits of arts-based activities in education and in the community. In addition he was a trustee and deputy chairman of the Kemp Town Society and a Martlets Champion.
Vaughan was a committed and highly valued Chairman of Brighton & Hove Arts Council and under his leadership the organisation flourished. He was hugely accomplished, eloquent and charming, always able to put others at their ease and quick to recognise and appreciate the efforts of committee members and volunteers.
He will be remembered for his warmth, kindness and good humour and will be sorely missed by many.
Read more about Vaughan on the Kemp Town Society website.
With love and thanks to Vaughan’s husband, Tony Hyde, who has kindly sent us these photographs.
