Bolton's deputy mayor and long-standing Westhoughton councillor, David Chadwick, has died. He was 82.
Coun Chadwick was first elected to Bolton council in 1998 and served as mayor of the borough for the 2025/26 municipal year. His tenure as the borough's first citizen was described as one of 'amazing energy and dedication' despite battling life-challenging illness for much of it.
On Wednesday morning the town hall flag was lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect at his passing.
'Dedicated his life to serving the community'
Council leader Akhtar Zaman said: "Everyone at Bolton council is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of David Chadwick, deputy mayor of Bolton.
"A Bolton lad through-and-through, David dedicated his life to serving the community he was so proud to call home.
"One of his proudest moments was his inauguration as mayor, a role he performed with typical dedication, warmth and good humour.
"He served as a Westhoughton town councillor, as a ward councillor for Westhoughton South, as cabinet member for transport, as chair of the licensing committee, as a school governor and in countless other roles.
"Our thoughts are with his wife Valerie, his children Matthew and Victoria, and his grandchildren."
'A true champion for his Westhoughton constituents'
Coun Chadwick worked in the textile industry and later had a management role at Royal Bolton Hospital.
Former Labour colleague Nick Peel added to the tributes. He said: "I'm really sad to hear the news of the passing of David, a friend and a true champion for his Westhoughton constituents.
"Despite suffering from a life threatening illness, he recovered well enough to carry out his duties as mayor of Bolton with amazing energy and dedication.
"He was an incredibly strong man. Thank you David for all that you have done for Westhoughton and Bolton, your service will not be forgotten."
