Douglas North MHK David Ashford has issued a deeply personal tribute following the sudden passing of his constituency colleague and friend John Wannenburgh MHK.
Ashford described Wannenburgh as “one of the kindest, warm‑hearted people” he had ever known, a man who cared profoundly for his constituents and often felt genuine distress when he couldn’t fix a problem for someone.
“He had the biggest heart of anyone I have ever met,” Ashford said, adding that Wannenburgh’s presence could lift people “in their darkest moments”.
He recalled Wannenburgh’s joy and humour in political life, calling him “a force of nature that can never be equalled”.
Ashford said working alongside him over the past five years had been both a privilege and a pleasure, and that their friendship extended well beyond politics, including Wannenburgh visiting Ashford’s home only days ago to meet his newborn son, insisting on “first cuddles”.
“John loved life and was loved by all those who came into contact with him,” Ashford said. “It’s been an absolute honour and a privilege to have known you. I will never forget the laughter and joy we shared.”
He extended condolences to Wannenburgh’s wife Lisa, his sons, and wider family, saying he and his wife Kathryn were thinking of them “at this saddest of times”.
