Tributes paid to councillor and former mayor

A former mayor of Kirklees has died at the age of 48, the local authority has confirmed.

Cahal Burke served as mayor for a year from 2023 and had represented Huddersfield's Lindley ward as a councillor since 2010.

Burke had been a Liberal Democrat councillor for 16 years, but was suspended by the party last week, meaning he was thereafter serving as an independent.

A spokesperson for Kirklees Council said flags at town halls across the district would fly at half mast on Tuesday as a mark of respect.

They added: "The council has been informed of the death of Cllr Cahal Burke. Our thoughts are with Councillor Burke's family, friends and colleagues."

Burke's friend and ward colleague, fellow Liberal Democrat councillor Anthony Smith, paid tribute to him, saying he had shown "endless enthusiasm and dedication to his constituents".

He added: "Cahal really was a community champion and an absolute joy to work with.

"His death will leave a huge hole in our lives and our community, and an even bigger legacy.

"My thoughts are with his family and friends, who have asked for privacy at this time."

The BBC has contacted the Liberal Democrats for comment. The reason for Burke's suspension from the party has not been revealed.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.