Tributes paid after death of city's Lord Mayor

Council leaders have paid tribute following the death of Cardiff's Lord Mayor Jane Henshaw.

Ms Henshaw "passed away peacefully, surrounded by family" at the weekend, a Cardiff council spokesperson said.

Council leader Huw Thomas said Ms Henshaw's death was "a profound loss for Cardiff", adding that she would be "deeply missed".

Flags at council buildings across the city are to fly at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Ms Henshaw, who had been a Labour councillor since 2017, was described by Mr Thomas as a "tireless advocate" who was "always striving to make Cardiff a better place for everyone".

A council spokesperson said Ms Henshaw, who represented the Splott ward, was "known for her unwavering dedication and service to the community" and she left behind "a legacy of compassion and commitment to public service".

Deputy Lord Mayor, Helen Lloyd Jones, said: "Jane was a beacon of hope and kindness in our community. Her smile was contagious and lit up the lives of all who met her."

She said that Ms Henshaw's commitment to helping those in need was "truly inspiring" and she had "a unique ability to connect with people and make them feel valued".

Council chief executive, Paul Orders said Ms Henshaw's "kindness, grace and desire to help those in need left an indelible mark on all who knew her".

He said she was "a source of compassion to so many", with her empathy and support for staff "second to none".

"Our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time," said Mr Orders.

Ms Henshaw leaves behind her partner Bill, four children and five grandchildren. Her daughter, Angharad Anderson, supported her as the Lady Mayoress.

A council spokesperson said that among her achievements during her time in office were initiatives to improve local infrastructure, support for community projects, and efforts to promote cultural and social inclusivity.

They added that "one of her most notable contributions was her support for the Cardiff Foodbank", which was her chosen charity during her tenure as Lord Mayor.

"She was deeply committed to addressing food insecurity and poverty in the community," the spokesperson added.

Speaking about Cardiff Foodbank when she took up her role as Lord Mayor, Ms Henshaw said: "Through my work on the council, I have seen at first-hand the great work the staff and the volunteers at the charity do, how they are changing lives in these difficult times and helping people out of poverty.

"It is a sad fact of life today that they exist at all, of course, but I am determined to help Cardiff Foodbank in any way I can this year."

Her family said they wished to thank all the staff at The University Hospital of Wales, Velindre Cancer Centre and Marie Curie Hospice for their support, care and kindness.