Tributes paid to 'kind and remarkable' councillor

A council spokesperson said Elaine MacTiernan "passed away peacefully" on 23 April

Tributes have been paid to a "kind, witty and hardworking" councillor who has died at the age of 77 after being diagnosed with cancer.

Tewkesbury Borough Councillor Elaine MacTiernan was first elected in 2011, becoming "pivotal" in securing funding and campaigning against controversial schemes.

Colleagues have said they remember her as the "embodiment of dedication and compassion", and described her death as a "tremendous loss".

The authority's chief executive Alistair Cunningham said: "Her absence leaves a void that will be keenly felt. She will be sorely missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire us."

Cllr Cunningham said the whole authority was deeply saddened by Ms MacTiernan's death, whom he defined as a "remarkable individual".

"She was a trusted figure among her constituents and officers, always approachable and dependable," he continued.

"Her vast life experience enriched her work, enabling her to serve with wisdom and integrity."

Colleagues described Elaine MacTiernan as a "trusted figure"

Borough council leader Richard Stanley agreed, adding Ms MacTiernan was a "huge personality and incredible councillor".

"She is a tremendous loss to Northway and to Tewkesbury Borough. Elaine was kind, witty and had professionalism and integrity by the bucket loads.

"Those of us who were fortunate enough to have served alongside her will miss her deeply."

Following the 2007 floods in Gloucestershire (pictured), significant efforts were made to enhance flood defences and improve emergency response capabilities

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Ms MacTiernan joined Northway Parish Council in 2011 after setting up the Northway Area Homeowners Association - later known as Northway Community Volunteers.

She campaigned for local flood alleviation works following the 2007 floods, and managed to resurrect the Northway Youth Club in 2009 after it had been inoperative for five years previously.

Ms MacTiernan secured funding towards the local Luncheon Club and creation of the BMX track on Northway Playing Field.

She also strongly opposed proposals for the 'Bridge to Nowhere' near the M5, and was keenly involved in provision of the new skate park in Northway.

A council spokesperson added: "If Elaine had a view she was never afraid to put it forward, even if she stood alone. She wanted to make change from within."