Councillor Ann Mitcheson: A lifetime of service to the people of Cramlington

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the death of Councillor Ann Mitcheson, at the age of 79.

Born in East Hartford, Councillor Mitcheson spent her whole life in Cramlington and represented Cramlington Town Council’s East Ward from 2009, when the Council was formed. She had previously given many years of service on Blyth Valley Council including a period as Deputy Mayor.

Cramlington Town Mayor, Councillor Helen Morris, said: “On behalf of all Cramlington councillors I want to express our sadness at the death of Councillor Ann Mitcheson.”

“Ann was a highly respected councillor and was committed to local politics, previously serving as Chairman of the Town Council, and having sat on every committee at some point in time. She was dedicated to the residents of East Ward and in turn earned their heartfelt respect. She will be sorely missed by her council colleagues and our deepest sympathies are with her family and friends.”

Ann’s working life was spent in the care sector and in administration roles and throughout her life she was a staunch supporter of the Labour Party.

Former council colleague and friend Jean Whisson recalled: “Ann cared greatly for Cramlington, a town that brought all the small colliery villages together. It was her heritage, of which she was very proud. Her parents were lifelong Labour Party members, as were many members of the mining community in Cramlington, and an interest in politics was instilled from an early age.”

“She willingly gave time to many community groups, supporting the Lunch Club at Doxford Methodist Church and playing the organ at the Methodist Chapel in East Hartford. She also had a passion for brass bands and classical music.”

“Ann also supported the Royal British Legion, Mayfair Community Centre, the Salvation Army, Northern Butterflies and Cramlington in Bloom. I am saddened at the passing of a dear friend and also recognise that Cramlington has lost a citizen who was committed to serving her fellow residents. She will be missed by many.”