Tributes have been paid to former Cornwall Council cabinet member Edwina Hannaford following her death. 

The highly respected Liberal Democrats councillor passed away after a battle against an aggressive form of cancer.

Councillor Hilary Frank, chair of the Cornwall Liberal Democrats' Council Group, extended a touching tribute to her late colleague.

She said: "So deeply saddened to lose my dearest colleague, Cornwall Councillor Edwina Hannaford, after a prolonged struggle against a particularly aggressive form of cancer.

"Her Lib Dem family will miss her profoundly, but her impact will continue to inspire, and her legacy of love and advocacy for the community will forever endure."

She applauded Ms Hannaford's enduring legacy, highlighting her two-decade service on the Looe Town Council and wins in every council election she contested.

Ms Frank also reminisced about Ms Hannaford's role as the leader of the Lib Dem group on Cornwall Council and her dedication towards environmental policies she implemented during her tenure as the cabinet member for environment, heritage and planning.

She added: "Here in Saltash, Edwina was instrumental in delivering the art installations at Saltmill when the former rubbish tip was transformed into a public park in 2008".

Falmouth Packet: The highly respected Liberal Democrats councillor passed away after a battle against an aggressive

Councillor Colin Martin, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Cornwall Council, echoed these sentiments: "Edwina Hannaford was a lot of things to a lot of people, but to me she was the epitome of a great councillor, working hard every day to make a positive difference to individuals, to Looe, to Cornwall and to the planet."

He lauded Ms Hannaford's dedication to environmental sustainability, her remarkable contribution in making Cornwall the leading council in the building of affordable homes, and her commitment to local democracy.

Mr Martin added: "While dealing with ‘big picture’ issues, Edwina never lost sight of the local concerns.

"She was very active in her own community and displayed immense dedication towards her constituents.

Extending his sympathies to Hannaford's husband, Simon, and the family, Mr Martin said: "It is a cruel disease, but over the past year she often told me how grateful she was to have had the time to make some special memories with him."

Andrew George, who serves as councillor for Ludgvan, Madron, Gulval and Heamoor, also paid homage to the beloved politician as a fellow Liberal Democrat, saying: "We are shocked and devastated by our loss.

"Edwina has been an outstanding servant to Cornwall and to her communities.

"She's been an inspiration and a rock to those of us who shared her commitment to the politics of kindness, decency and consideration for others.

"I've always admired Edwina's commitment, integrity and energy."

He finished: "Our love is with her husband, Simon and family at this difficult time".

Jayne Kirkham, Cornwall Councillor for Falmouth Penwerris and leader of the Labour Group in Cornwall, said: "The Labour Group were very sad to hear that Edwina Hannaford has died. 

"Edwina was an exemplary councillor and public servant. She always put her residents first and her passion for environmental issues propelled Cornwall Council forward in that crucial area.

"Edwina was kind, but also a strong leader and a great example and champion for women in politics.

"We will miss her hugely. Her contribution was immeasurable."

 

We send our love and thoughts to Simon and her family.