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Tributes to much-respected council veteran
POLITICAL stalwart James Lowrey Capstick died yesterday morning, knowing the immense respect in which he was held.
The 80-year-old, who had suffered ill-health in recent years, was surrounded by close family members when he passed away at his home in Glenhurst Grove, South Shields.
In November last year, Coun Capstick – known to most as Jim – was the recipient of a rare honour when he was made a freeman of South Tyneside.
It was richly deserved recognition.
The Progressive representative for Harton in South Shields had spent 45 years serving the borough, and was its longest-serving councillor.
But what also set Coun Capstick apart was that praise came from all political sides.
Even those councillors who fundamentally disagreed with him couldn’t help but like him.
At the ceremony in South Shields Town Hall, foes and friends queued up to express their admiration for the ‘Father of the Chamber’.
Coun Capstick had displayed his determination and bravery right to the end of his life – discharging himself from hospital to attend the ceremony.
Admiration for him was expressed again yesterday, with Labour’s Coun Iain Malcolm, the leader of South Tyneside Council, once more leading the praise.
Despite their political differences, Coun Malcolm would often call on Coun Capstick for advice, utilising the experience the veteran politician had built up over almost half a century.
Coun Malcolm said: “In many ways, Jim’s death marks the end of a political era.
“He gave a lifetime of service to South Tyneside Council, and was an extremely honest opponent.
“Local politics in the borough was strengthened by his robust challenges in the council chamber.
“Everyone at South Tyneside Council mourns his passing.”
Coun Enid Hetherington, who represents West Park for the Progressives, had known Coun Capstick for decades.
She said: “He was always a great guy, full of fun with a tremendous sense of humour.
“He was a very fair man, and he was someone I could always turn to in my 14 years a councillor. He will be a massive miss.”
Praise for Coun Capstick also appeared on the Twitter social media site.
Coun Ernest Gibson, who represents Labour in Whiteleas, tweeted: “Jim was a man of great honour and integrity, who was dedicated to South Tyneside. Rest in peace Jim.”
Coun Ahmed Khan, Real Independent councillor for Beacon and Bents, offered his “deepest sympathy and condolences to family and friends”.
The flag of St George and the council’s crest, both on top of South Shields Town Hall, are now flying at half-mast as another mark of respect.
Coun Capstick, a leading freemason and former electrical engineer, is survived by wife Elma, daughter Jackie, son Jimmy and Elma’s children.
It is not expected the vacant Harton seat will be contested before May’s local elections.
Twitter: @shieldsgazpaul
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Weather for Jarrow
Wednesday 23 May 2012
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absent geordie
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 04:03 AMThe passing of a true gent. I have known him for many years. He was always ready with guidance and advice when asked. RIP Jim and condolences to his family
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