TRIBUTES were paid to three retiring councillors in their last full council meeting.
Barnsley Independent Group member Liz Grundy, and Labour councillors Brian Mathers and Joe Unsworth, have both decided not to stand in next month’s local elections.
Coun Grundy, who was not at last Thursday’s meeting, has served the Old Town Ward since 2014.
Coun Mathers served the Ardsley Ward from 1996 to 2004 and was re-elected to the Stairfoot ward in 2010. He served as Mayor of Barnsley in 2015/16.
Coun Unsworth represented Penistone on the council from 1995 to 2003, and was re-elected to Penistone West in 2014.
Council leader Sir Steve Houghton thanked them all for their service to the council and the people of Barnsley.
Coun Mathers said: “The council faces some very serious issues in terms of austerity particularly, but I know I’m leaving this council in good hands. You have got to work together as a council, but I am sure you can do it.”
Coun Unsworth said: “Given the scale of the cuts to the council over recent years, I think the councillors and staff of this council are doing an excellent job in these exceptionally difficult times and I wish you all the very best for the future.”
