Councillor dies after serving area for 30 years

A councillor who served her community for more than 30 years has died.

Carole Burdis worked as a Labour councillor in North Tyneside since 1992, representing residents of both the Holystone and Valley wards.

She was described as someone who showed "incredible passion" and care to everyone she represented.

North Tyneside Council will hold a minute's silence to remember Mrs Burdis at the next full council meeting on 18 January.

Mrs Burdis was first elected to represent the Holystone ward in 1992 and then to represent Valley ward in 1996, a position she held until her death.

During her career she had several high profile roles, including being the civic mayor in 2001-02 and most recently as cabinet member for community safety and public protection.

Outside of local politics Mrs Burdis worked for Unison until her retirement.

She also held regional positions on the North of Tyne Combined Authority, Tyne and Wear Fire Authority Board and the Port of Tyne.

The elected Mayor for North Tyneside, Dame Norma Redfearn, led tributes to Mrs Burdis.

Dame Norma said: “Carole represented the people of North Tyneside for over 30 years.

"She has shown incredible passion, care and respect for all of our residents, communities and businesses throughout this lengthy political career.

“She leaves a lasting, positive legacy on communities in our borough and has made a real difference for families for over three decades of public service."

Mrs Burdis leaves behind her family and husband Brian, who is also a North Tyneside councillor and current chair of the council.

The couple met on the campaign trail together in the Valley ward and married in 2013 at Wallsend Hall.

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