TRIBUTES were paid to a dedicated Rhyl councillor yesterday (Tuesday, November 14).

The former council chairman Cllr Pete Prendergast died suddenly in September.

The popular councillor had served for nearly 10 years, representing his home town of Rhyl in the Cefndy ward.

He was also a town councillor and chairman of Denbighshire Leisure.

Speaking at a council meeting at Denbighshire’s Ruthin County Hall HQ, Cllr Diane King paid tribute to her former colleague and late friend.

“He was one of those people that you felt honoured to have in your life. His willingness to help others defined him as a person,” she said.

“The fact that Peter had so many friends over the 30 years is a testament to the genuine and kind person he was and the calibre of friendships (he had), not forgetting his fellow councillors and friends both on Rhyl Town Council and Denbighshire County Council.

“He was so proud when he was elected chair of Denbighshire County Council, not once but twice. He was also very proud to be chair of Denbighshire Leisure where he was passionate about his contribution to the company’s successful growth and vision for the future.”

She added: “Pete came from humble beginnings, and he possessed an innate quality that he could relate to anyone at all levels in any situation. That enabled him to work tirelessly for his community as a town councillor and then a county councillor, supporting so many projects.”

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Cllr Huw Hilditch-Roberts added: “His wit was something that really struck me. It would be at times when you didn’t expect it. You’d be on a school visit, and he’d say something in your ear, and you’d be like, I can’t laugh right now!”

Leader Cllr Jason McLellan also paid tribute to his late Labour colleague.

“It was such shockingly sad news when we heard,” said Cllr McLellan.

“I’ve known Peter for a number of years, obviously through the Labour Party. I remember when Pete was first elected as a county councillor. It was in a by-election. I think that was in about 2014, and you could see straight away Peter was completely dedicated and worked so hard in the election.

“When he became elected, it was quite clear how dedicated he was to the role of councillor, representing his community and speaking up for his residents.”