Tributes paid to 'extraordinary' former councillor

Tributes have been paid to an "extraordinary" former councillor following her death at the age of 64.

Edwina Simpson was said to have been "instrumental" in setting up Bingley Town Council in 2016, and served as an independent member for the Priestthorpe ward until she stepped down in 2020.

She died on Christmas Eve, the parish council confirmed.

Ros Dawson, who served alongside Ms Simpson on Bingley Town Council, said: "Edwina was so generous with her talents and her time and was just outstanding in what she achieved."

Bingley Town Council said Ms Simpson had been the secretary of the Bingley Community Council Group, which successfully campaigned for a town council.

A council spokesperson described her role as "instrumental".

She later helped establish the council's Green and Clean working group and organised Bingley's annual floral displays, in addition to undertaking administrative work for the authority.

"She was an extraordinary person who has left a lasting legacy in Bingley and made such a positive difference to so many people and organisations," said Ms Dawson.

John Goode, who also served alongside Ms Simpson on the council, praised her "unbelievable" contribution.

"Unfortunately, the council has gone downhill since she left," he added.

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