SAD LOSS OF A HARD WORKING LIBERAL DEMOCRAT

Yesterday we heard of the tragic loss of an extremely effectively Community Councillor; Councillor Mary Little – Mary worked closely alongside Councillors Les Bonner and Sarah Leak the other Yarborough Ward Councillors.

Councillor Mary Little was elected to the Yarborough ward in May, 2003 – the same year that I was elected to represent the East Marsh Ward. I have many fond memories of Mary, and she was well respected by all Councillors, Officers, and in particular the residents of the Yarborough Ward.

She was a true Community Leader, well respected, worked extremely hard, and was always a willing volunteer. Mary very rarely missed a Council Meeting, and if she did you knew something was wrong, she attended many partnership meetings, and never missed elected member training sessions.

Within the community she was well respected and worked tirelessly on behalf of all residents – she was a great ambassador for the Yarborough and North East Lincolnshire.

Prior to being elected in May, 2003; Mary always played an active role in local politics and for many years was tireless campaigner for Liberal Democrats, and the Liberal Party before the new party was created.

I sat on many committees with Mary, and when I chaired the Children and Young People’s Scrutiny Panel my earlier thought about Mary always being hard working and willing volunteer ran true. She was ever present, attended every additional event within local schools, children’s centres, children’s homes etc – Mary took a great interest in the welfare of children and young people. In particular she was well liked by many young people, and I received good feedback following those visits.

Last night on the Grimsby Evening Telegraph website the North East Lincolnshire Council Leader Andrew De Freitas was said: “It is a shock to all of her colleagues.

“She was a very quiet person, but very hard-working and very conscientious

“It is a sad, sad day.”

Mary will be sadly missed by all her family, friends, the residents of the Yarborough Ward, and her fellow Councillors.