Former mayor of Kirklees dies

Mrs Bates, who served Liversedge and Gomersall as a councillor for 13 years between 2000 - 2013, passed away on Friday (August 22) after a lengthy battle with illness.

She was mayor for a year-long spell from 2002 and would later become a key Cabinet member in the council administration.

Mark Eastwood, the Conservative candidate for the Dewsbury East ward on the council, said that he was shocked to hear of Mrs Bates’ death.

He said: “It’s a very sad loss. Margaret was an inspiration to me and she worked so hard for Kirklees. She helped everyone regardless of their background or their problem.

“She really was a star councillor and she commanded respect from all parties.

“Of course my thoughts are with Margaret’s family at this very sad time.”

Mrs Bates had stepped down from the council last year due to ill health.