Tributes paid to former councillor Winifred McLoughlin

Winifred McLoughlin, a former mayor of Wakefield and Castleford, died of pneumonia at Pinderfields Hospital on Thursday, January 1.

Mrs McLoughlin served the Glass Houghton ward from 1955 to 2000 and was granted the Freedom of the City of Wakefield in 2001.

She was awarded a British Empire Medal for her services to the community of Glass Houghton in 2013.

Alison Drake, chairwoman of Castleford Heritage Trust, described Mrs McLoughlin as a “wonderful and caring friend”.

She said: “The group is really saddened by the news. Winifred will be long remembered for her great affection and passion for the community.”

Deputy Wakefield Council leader Denise Jeffery said: “I am devastated. When I first came to the council in 1989 I could always turn to her for advice. She has been amazing for Castleford and will be sadly missed.”