The Borough Council of Calderdale is deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of its most dedicated and hard working councillors, and our Deputy Mayor, Councillor Mrs Geraldine Carter. Her passionate commitment to public service, tireless efforts on behalf of residents, and her unwavering belief in the strength of our communities have left a lasting mark on the borough.
Throughout Councillor Carter’s years of service, she worked with integrity and determination, always striving to improve the lives of those she represented. Colleagues, council staff, and community members alike will remember her dedication, her steady leadership, and her willingness to listen and act.
Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her. Calderdale has lost a devoted public servant, and their contribution will not be forgotten.
May she rest in peace.
The Mayor for 2025/26 is Councillor Steven Leigh MBE
Steven's biography
Steven has been very successful:
- in his business career;
- as the respected Head of Policy and Director of the Mid-Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce;
- and in local politics as a Ryburn Ward Councillor in Calderdale. (For the last five years he has also been the Leader of the Conservative Group.)
He was brought up as one of five children in South Manchester. First living in a Manchester Corporation flat for over five years and later educated at Chorlton Grammar School for Boys.
His career rapidly progressed from:
- a Computer Programmer;
- to Systems Analyst;
- to Data Processing Manager;
- and later to Managing Director and the Chief Executive of a fully listed PLC on the London Stock Exchange. The Company brought Steven and his family to Calderdale in 1990. This was due to a management buyout of a company in Cleckheaton. It expanded quickly with:
- company acquisitions in the UK and USA;
- new offices in Sao Paulo and Singapore;
-
and a very successful manufacturing joint venture in China.
The Company traded globally, mainly in the oil and gas Industry in the pipeline sector. It was also honoured with The Queens Award for Export Achievement.
Later, Steven was personally recognised with an MBE for 'services to small businesses and the Yorkshire Economy'. He received this from Prince William, at Buckingham Palace.
Steven and his lovely wife Linda have two grown-up children who are both successful in their own rights. The whole family relishes the challenges and happiness which lie in the year ahead.
Our objective is to serve Calderdale and all its residents to the best of our ability. Also, to pass on to our successors a Mayoralty that has been:
- in safe hands;
- untarnished;
- and respected as we have now received it.
For the Mayor's chosen charities, please see: Mayor of Calderdale's Charity Appeal.
The Mayoress is Steven's wife Linda Leigh.
Events
If you want to invite the Mayor to an event:
- Phone: (01422) 393022.
- Email: mayoralty@calderdale.gov.uk.
You can also complete our online form: Ask for the Mayor to attend an event.
Also visit: Mayor of Calderdale (Facebook).