I would like to wish the new Mayor of Kirklees Cllr Christine Iredale, and her consort Robert, a fantastic year in office. I know Christine is extremely proud to be the first Golcar Councillor elected to the role.

Christine’s charities for the next year will be Dementia UK and The Alzheimer’s’ Society.

Christine was born in Kirkheaton and was educated at Kirkheaton CE School. She moved to Cowlersley in 1960.

She left school at the age of 15 to work in the textile industry and later went on to work as a Home Care Assistant for 18 years.

Christine is married to Robert, and has 2 daughters, Rochelle and Briony, 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, with whom she spends as much time as possible.

Christine was elected as a Liberal Democrat Councillor in 2003 and became chair of the Licensing and Safety Committee in 2007. She has also served on the Planning Sub-Committee (Huddersfield Area) and Overview and Scrutiny Panel for Well-Being and Communities.

She is involved in many local activities, which include being a member of Milnsbridge Liberal Club and Milnsbridge Bowling Club. She is also a member on the Longwood Sing Committee, a member of the Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion, and a keen supporter of Golcar Lily Day.