Tributes paid to Calderdale Deputy Mayor Geraldine Carter after her death
There have been tributes across the political spectrum for the long serving councillor
Tribute has been paid to Calderdale’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Geraldine Carter, who has died.
A former Mayor of the borough and a long-serving councillor, tributes have been paid to Coun Carter from across the political spectrum.
Mayor of Calderdale, Coun Steven Leigh, said the borough was “deeply saddened” to announce Coun Carter had passed away and described her “passionate commitment to public service, tireless efforts on behalf of residents and her unwavering belief in the strength of our communities.”
These attributes left a lasting mark on the borough, he said.
Coun Leigh, also a Conservative Party colleague of Coun Carter, said: “Throughout Councillor Carter’s years of service, she worked with integrity and determination, always striving to improve the lives of those she represented.
“Colleagues, council staff, and community members alike will remember her dedication, her steady leadership, and her willingness to listen and act.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
“Calderdale has lost a devoted public servant, and her contribution will not be forgotten.
“May she rest in peace.”
Calder Valley MP, Labour’s Josh Fenton-Glynn, said Coun Carter had “commitment to her community running through her veins.”
He said she had been a champion of Calderdale’s markets, a voice for her community, and “a true force of nature.”
“Calderdale is a better place for all she did for it,” he said.
Coun Carter served on Calderdale Council for more than 25 years, representing Ryburn ward for many years and, after a short break, being elected to serve in Brighouse ward.
When Coun Leigh chose her as his Deputy Mayor – with her husband, Brian, as her consort – he said he knew her experience would be an asset, it becoming the third time she had served as Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Carter’s own year as Mayor of Calderdale, in 2003-2004, with Mr Carter again as consort, was a memorable one for the civic couple and the borough.
In later years she spoke with pride about hosting a Royal visit to Halifax from Queen Elizabeth II and her own consort, Prince Philip, in May 2004.
The visit arose partly through serendipity, Coun Carter said, after speaking to the Queen while attending a Royal Garden Party hosted by the monarch the previous year and resolving to invite her to visit Calderdale.
“I got to know she was coming the day before Christmas Eve.
“Paul Sheehan, who was Chief Executive, knocked on the door and said ‘I’ve got some news for you – she’s coming!’
“It was a wonderful Christmas present,” said Coun Carter.
During the visit the Mayor was able to spend some time with Prince Philip, including meeting local Duke of Edinburgh Award holders.
Aside from major family events, Coun Carter said it was one of her life’s most important moments, fondly remembered by her – and by the people of Calderdale.