Councillors from across Stafford Borough have paid tribute to Angela Loughran, the former mayor and long-serving representative of the town's Manor Ward, following her death in April at the age of 82.
Local government veteran remembered
Mrs Loughran, who served on Stafford Borough Council for 29 years and was borough mayor in 2013/14, was lauded by colleagues for her steadiness, institutional knowledge and hands-on approach to constituency work. Her passing prompted reflections at a council meeting that also welcomed the victor of a recent by-election in Manor Ward.
Labour councillor Aaron Thurstance won the by-election last week and was welcomed to his first full meeting by borough mayor Mark Winnington. During the session, elected members from across parties spoke about Mrs Loughran's dedication to the ward where she lived, taught and raised a family.
"I really miss the one to one chats where we put the world to rights. I miss her at group meetings, and I'm sure my Labour colleagues feel the same - she was our chair and she would keep us in order and make sure the leader didn't speak for too long."
The quotation above was given by council leader Aidan Godfrey, who served alongside Mrs Loughran for many years. He highlighted her effectiveness in scrutiny committees and in using an intimate knowledge of local government to secure benefits for constituents and the borough.
Cross-party respect
Tributes were not confined to Labour ranks. Conservative group leader Jeremy Pert described Mrs Loughran as an "old-school" councillor, respected across the chamber for her long service and commitment. Councillors also noted her involvement with external organisations, including groups concerned with bereavement and loss, which had been particularly important to her.
Councillors recalled that Mrs Loughran's husband, John, died a few weeks after her; members attended their joint funeral.
Practical points and local impact
Mrs Loughran's death and the subsequent by-election have resulted in a continuity of party representation in Manor Ward, with Labour retaining the seat. The council's public tributes underline the role long-serving councillors play in maintaining local services, chairing committees and offering casework support to residents.
- Service to the community: 29 years on Stafford Borough Council.
- Civic roles: Borough mayor in 2013/14; chaired committees and worked on scrutiny.
- Recent events: By-election in Manor Ward won by Aaron Thurstance; colleagues paid tributes at council meeting.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Angela Loughran |
| Age at death | 82 |
| Council service | 29 years |
| Mayoral year | 2013/14 |
| Ward | Manor Ward, Stafford |
As civic representatives reflect on Mrs Loughran's contribution, the episode serves as a reminder of the experience and continuity long-serving local councillors bring to municipal life. The council's tributes and the attendance at the funeral by many colleagues underline the personal as well as the political loss felt by those who worked with her.
Further details about memorial arrangements and any council-led commemorations will be made available through the borough's official channels.
