Anita had served as a Newcastle City Councillor since 1996. She was an excellent councillor and a true local champion for our area - everyone knows someone Anita has helped. She was hugely popular and well-liked locally for her work with many community groups and initiatives. She served as a senior cabinet member and deputy leader of the council and then as leader of the Lib Dem Opposition in Newcastle. She was also very highly respected nationally for her work for the Local Government Association. She was recently appointed as Sheriff of Newcastle and due to be next year’s Lord Mayor of Newcastle. She had also recently been nominated to receive an OBE. All of our thoughts and best wishes are with her husband Philip, and her children Andrew and Ellie at this very sad time. Her loss is very deeply felt by all of us. It’s impossible to put into words how much we and everyone in Castle Ward will miss her. She was an amazing person and a wonderful friend and colleague. The best tribute we can pay her will be to do our best to continue her exemplary record of service, action, and dedicated work for everyone in our community.

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