Tributes to former mayor of South Tyneside after Jarrow councillor dies aged 76

Tributes have been paid to a former Mayor of South Tyneside and dedicated councillor Alan Smith, who has died at the age of 76.
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Cllr Smith had represented the Fellgate and Hedworth ward as a Labour Party member since 2012. He served as the borough’s mayor in 2016/17 and was a planning committee chairman.

His wife Moira served by his side as mayoress and is herself the councillor for the Primrose ward.

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Cllr Smith was a former teacher and youth worker with a passion for education, committed to helping children and young people gain the skills and experiences needed for adult life.

Former mayor of South Tyneside, Cllr Alan Smith, seen here with his wife Moira, has died at the age of 76.Former mayor of South Tyneside, Cllr Alan Smith, seen here with his wife Moira, has died at the age of 76.
Former mayor of South Tyneside, Cllr Alan Smith, seen here with his wife Moira, has died at the age of 76.

He was a member of the National Union of Teachers where he was South Tyneside treasurer for over 30 years.

At the time of his death he was chair of governors at Fellgate Primary School and vice chair at St Joseph's RC Primary School. Previously he had been chair of governors at Hedworthfield Primary School and also at Clervaux Nursery School, as well as being a teacher adviser.

The procession to mark the beginning of his year as mayor in June 2016 took place between Hedworthfield Primary to St Joseph’s RC Church. Councillor Smith was a practising Catholic.

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Until his election to the council he was a volunteer adviser with the Citizens Advice Bureau, where he later became a trustee.

Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Alan Smith, unveiling the All Wars Memorial at Jarrow Town Hall in 2017.Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Alan Smith, unveiling the All Wars Memorial at Jarrow Town Hall in 2017.
Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Alan Smith, unveiling the All Wars Memorial at Jarrow Town Hall in 2017.

During his year in office as mayor he helped raise over £24,000 which was distributed among charities across the borough.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Councillor Alan Smith. Our thoughts are very much with his wife, Moira, their children and wider family and friends.

“Alan was a popular and highly respected member of the Council who cared passionately about the people of Fellgate and Hedworth areas he represented. He was committed to making a difference in his local community where I am sure he will be remembered with great respect.

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“As a mark of respect, the flag will be flown at half mast above South Shields Town Hall.”

As well as Mrs Smith, he leaves behind two sons and a daughter. He was also a granddad.

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Read more: Why Jarrow Town Hall is something to be proud of

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