Tony Sharps: Flintshire Council mourns loss of well-respected former councillor

Flintshire Council is mourning the loss of a stalwart and well-respected former councillor.

Former deputy leader of the authority and long-serving independent councillor for the Northop ward Tony Sharps passed away last week aged 80.

Prior to the Flintshire authority’s formation in 1996, Mr Sharps, of Northop Hall, was also on the former Delyn Borough Council and held a number of significant roles throughout his distinguished political career of five decades. He retired prior to last year’s local elections.

Family, friends and colleagues led the tributes in the local media earlier this week.

Senior figures at the council have also added to the tributes and spoken of his legacy.

The chairman of Flintshire Council, Hope Councillor Gladys Healey said: “We have learnt of the recent passing of former Councillor Tony Sharps. Our thoughts at this time are obviously with Tony’s family.

“Tony served as a Councillor for over 50 years until his retirement in 2022, including his election to Flintshire County Council when it was formed in 1996.

“He was a well-respected councillor, having held a number of senior positions on the council, including two spells as Chair of the Licensing Committee, the Deputy Leader of the Council, and the Executive Member for Environment.”

The leader of council, Flint Castle Councillor Ian Roberts who knew Mr Sharps for many years, added: “Tony Sharps was leader of Delyn Borough Council when I was first elected in 1992.

“He was a very effective leader, dedicated to the interests of Delyn and its residents.

“His legacy can be seen around Delyn today. He was instrumental in working to restore the industrial base of the area following the devastating closure of Courtaulds textile mills and Shotton steel works.

“I regarded Tony as a friend and I have worked closely with him for over 30 years. He will be sadly missed by his family, friends and the wider community.”

Mr Sharps’ former colleague in the Independent group, Hawarden Aston Councillor Helen Brown also paid tribute.
She said: “My deepest condolences go to Tony’s wife Gene, family and friends.

“I had the privilege of serving on the Executive Board with Tony and what a character.

“His name speaks for itself, how admired and respected he was.”
By Rory Sheehan – Local Democracy Reporter (more here).