TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Labour councillor who “worked tirelessly for the people” of St Helens, following his death last week.

Ken Cleary had an illustrious political career, serving on St Helens Council and various parish councils.

He also served as the chairman of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC), which saw him receive an MBE in 2008.

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During his time as mayor of St Helens in 1990-91, Ken was instrumental in starting the fund for Willowbrook Hospice.

Ken was also later named as vice patron of the hospice, and was also one of the founding members of Home-Start St Helens.

Ken’s health deteriorated in recent years, but he continued to serve on Seneley Green Parish Council up until his death.

He leaves behind his wife, Sandra, and three children.

On Wednesday, during a virtual meeting of St Helens Borough Council, several Labour councillors paid tribute to their former colleague and friend.

Cllr Sue Murphy, ward councillor for Billinge and Seneley Green, said: “I met Ken 28 years ago at a Labour branch meeting and he has always supported me in my political career.

“Ken once told me that once you become involved in politics you will never and can never walk away from it.

“And how true that is as despite Ken’s failing health, he still loved his politics and loved nothing better than in getting involved in the political debate.

“But Ken loved St Helens borough and its people. And he served them well over the years. He worked tirelessly for the people.”

Ken was elected to St Helens Council to represent Billinge and Seneley Green, in 1983. He was also elected to Seneley Green Parish Council that year.

He lost his seat to the Conservatives on the district council in 1987, but was re-elected to Queen’s Park the following year.

Ken still sat on Seneley Green Parish Council for many years, and had previously served on Billinge Chapel End Parish Council.

Ken was a governor for several schools over the years, including Garswood Primary School, Penkford School and Newton-le-Willows Primary School.

Cllr Murphy said children were “very close and dear to his heart”.

Close to tears, she said: “Over the past year or so, I spoke to Ken almost daily.

“And despite his failing health, he always kept abreast of what was going on in his town and in his beloved Labour Party.

“George Kenneth Cleary MBE, thank you for the work you have done for the people of St Helens.

“You’ve earned your rest. Rest in peace my friend.”

Cllr Marlene Quinn, cabinet member for adult social care, said she first met Ken almost 50 years ago, and helped him during various election campaigns.

She praised Ken’s work for Willowbrook Hospice, particularly in his mayoral year, saying he wanted to “champion” fundraising for the charity.

Cllr Quinn said Ken has experienced “incredibly bad health” in recent years, and had to have his leg amputated several years ago, but said this did not stop his tireless work in the community.

She said: “It is with sadness that I send my condolence to Sandra and his three children.

“But we’ll never forget him because his legacy, Home-Start is still thriving, and our hospice is still there and let’s hope it remains there.”

Cllr Joe Pearson, ward councillor for Billinge and Seneley Green, said Ken’s commitment to public service has been “absolute and enduring”.

As chairman of the parish council for many years, Cllr Pearson said Ken helped bring about “major developments” and services to the area.

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Cllr Pearson said: “I wish to out on record our thanks and gratitude for all the improvements Ken has brought about in our neighbourhood.

“On behalf of myself, members of the parish council and residents of Billinge and Seneley Green, I wish to offer our condolences to Sandra and family for their loss.

“Ken has left us now, but he will be remembered fondly for many years to come.”