Long-serving councillor steps down after 67 years

A county councillor, who has been in local politics for almost seven decades, is one name you won’t be seeing on voting forms at today’s elections.
Coun Tony Turner with Caistor Mayor Jon WrightCoun Tony Turner with Caistor Mayor Jon Wright
Coun Tony Turner with Caistor Mayor Jon Wright

Councillor Tony Turner MBE JP, now in his 90s, has represented the North Wolds division, serving Caistor and the surrounding villages.

Over the years, he has worked closely with the town and parish councils, being the first port of call for many over a range of issues relating to roads and other county council responsibilities.

Caistor Mayor, Coun John Wright commented:“Myself personally, Caistor Council and its townsfolk are sad to see Coun Turner stand down, but to carry on his services into his nineties is quite staggering.

“We would like to express our thanks and gratitude to Coun Turner, the extent of his work and generosity has been invaluable, given in such a dedicated manner and an excellent example of unselfish public service.

“He has achieved so much, from becoming Mayor of Cleethorpes back in 1960, receiving an MBE to where he is now – well over 60 years serving our communities, a monumental feat.

“Caistor and the surrounding areas will greatly miss Coun Tony Turner MBE, and wish whomever is successful in taking over his position every success.”

Coun Turner had his first taste of local politics when elected to the former Cleethorpes Borough Council in 1954 and was later elected to Humberside County Council.

In 1960, he became the youngest ever Mayor of Cleethorpes.

In the same year, he became a magistrate and was later chairman of the bench.

When Cleethorpes Borough Council disbanded,during reorganisation in the 1970s, he was presented with the borough’s flag.

During his time with Lincolnshire County Council he has held a number important posts, including the executive councillor and portfolio holder for waste disposal, Special Needs (May 2002 to October 2003) and executive councillor and portfolio holder for ICT and personnel (April 2004 to March 2005).

He has also been a member of a number of outside bodies during his 25 years as a county councillor, including West Lindsey Cultural Panel and West Lindsey Local Strategic Partnership.

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