Tragedy as campaigning agent dies just days after cancer diagnosis

A popular and respected estate agent in Essex, who also campaigned nationally against homelessness, has died just days after bing diagnosed with cancer.

Tributes have been paid to Brian McGovern who ran McGovern & Co estate agents and founded the community organisation Cool to be Kind, dedicated to helping the homeless community in the county.

Just a week ago he posted on his agency website: "Since we opened our doors in 2021, McGovern & Co has enjoyed amazing support from the local community.

“To my shock, I have been diagnosed with a rather nasty cancer which requires me to take some time away from the ‘front of house’ activities until my health improves.

“My co-founder Neil, Trefor (our amazing Sales Manager) and the rest of the team will be on hand as normal so business service levels are maintained.

“I of course will be keeping an eye on things. I do however hope to be back at my desk and see you all very soon.

“My very best wishes, love and luck. Brian x”

Now his colleagues have given this message to the media: "We are shocked and saddened to share the news that Brian has passed away. Whether it was his work with the local homeless community, friends in the pub, selling houses or simply being ‘Mr Moulsham’, Brian was such a popular and well loved character.

"He recently announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer, however the speed at which things have developed has hit us hard. We send our condolences to his family and close friends and know that it will be difficult for them to process what has happened. Brian will forever be remembered by many in the local community and we will all miss him dearly. Rest In Peace Brian.”

McGovern oversaw each sale and purchase involving his agency from instruction to completion, and had worked in the industry in Chelmsford for over 30 years. 

He had been nominated for the Pride Of Essex Award and a Certificate of Recognition from the Mayor of Chelmsford with his charity work with Cool to be Kind which he co-founded in 2015, and which aimed to coordinate the different agencies working with the homeless and to prevent homelessness.

He frequently appeared in local and national media including BBC News, ITV News and Essex Live, and had a regular slot on Chelmsford Community Radio discussing Chelmsford based topics including the local property market.