It is very doubtful if the people of Spen Valley will ever know how much we owe to Henry and other members of the old Spenborough Council for their hard work, and who put people first and their political affiliation second.

I had known Henry for many years when I became involved in politics, and it was down to him and his faith in me that I stuck with it as long as I did.

I will never forget his obvious pride in taking me around the five old people's granges in the Spen ward all those years ago.

What a sad epitaph it is that today only one of those grange remains.
Henry also worked hard for the youth of the district, he helped to organise a boxing club in Dewsbury for young offenders, whilst his work and enthusiasm for local football in the Spen Valley was appreciated by many, particularly in the Hightown and Windy Bank area.

The last time I spoke glowingly of Henry's hard work was in this column back in 1985 - he gave me a right ear bashing, that's the way he was.
Sadly they don't make people like him any more.

KEITH BURKE
Garden Close
LITTLETOWN