Tributes to a ‘dedicated public servant and a much-loved local character’

Tributes have been paid to the long-serving Van ward councillor Christine Forehead, who has passed away at the age of 81.

The mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother died on Tuesday November 18, surrounded by her family.

Labour’s Cllr Forehead was elected to Caerphilly County Borough Council when it was first established in 1995, having previously served on the former Rhymney Valley District Council. She also served as chair of the council.

She was re-elected at the most recent council elections in 2022.

Paying tribute, council leader Jamie Pritchard said: “The community of Caerphilly, and the wider county borough, has lost a dedicated and long-standing councillor who has always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of everyone in the local community.

“Christine held a number of senior roles within local government over the years and was also active in the local community council and within school governing bodies.”

Cllr Pritchard continued: “She was a dedicated public servant and a much-loved local character who will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with Christine’s daughter, Cllr Elaine Forehead, and her wider family at this very sad time.”

Caerphilly’s Plaid Cymru Senedd Member, Lindsay Whittle, who served on the council alongside Cllr Forehead, said: “Very sad to learn of Chris’ passing who I’ve known for very many years.

“We got on very well despite our political differences and Chris earned a reputation as an excellent grafter for her ward over decades. I offer my condolences to her daughter Elaine, all family and friends.”

Caerphilly Uniform Exchange, which is based in Lansbury Park in the Van ward, posted on Facebook: “We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved ward councillor Christine Forehead.

“Christine was a great supporter of the uniform exchange, and a friend to both staff and volunteers. She will be dearly missed.”

Wayne David, the former Labour MP for Caerphilly, described Cllr Forehead as a “wonderful representative of her community over many years” and said: “I worked closely with her when I was the MP and I saw at first hand how she helped so many people.

“She will be really missed.”

Funeral details will be announced in due course, the council confirmed.