Tameside’s First Lady Mayoress, Lena Eason had died, it has been announced, at the age of ninety five
Mrs Eason, who was 95 on 26 July, was consort to her late husband, Jim, in 1974-75, before serving as civic mayor in her own right in 1991-92. As well as representing Tameside Council’s St Peter’s and Ashton St Michael’s wards, she was also a member of Ashton Town Council.
She served on a number of committees, represented Tameside as deputy chair of the AGMA Trading Standards Committee, chaired the Twinning sub-committee and was also a Labour Group Junior Whip.
Lena has been involved with the Labour Party for over 50 years and, despite her retirement as a councillor, still keeps herself busy with the party and its women’s forum.
Cllr Kieran Quinn, Tameside Council’s executive leader, said: “This is very sad news and a huge loss to the borough.
“Lena was dedicated to the community and worked tirelessly for the people of Tameside. Not only was she mayor, mayoress, a councillor and a magistrate, she also served as a school governor and supported many charities. She fully deserved to be appointed an honorary alderman in 2006.
“To show respect for this special lady, who did so much for the people of our borough, we will be lowering flags to half-mast on our civic buildings.”
