Tributes paid following sad death of charity champion and former Lancaster Mayor

Monday, 14 July 2025 11:44

By Beyond Radio News

June Ashworth with Alan Hatton-Yeo, chair of the Citizens Advice North Lancashire trustees

Local charity champion and former Lancaster Mayor, June Ashworth, has passed away.

June was a long-standing and much-respected public servant who dedicated many years to the local community.

During her political career as a Morecambe Bay Independent, she served on Lancaster City Council's Cabinet and chaired many committees. She was also mayor of Lancaster in 2013/14 and was also a long-standing school governor.

A highlight of her mayoral term included attending the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace - a fitting honour for someone who gave so much to her community.

She served on Morecambe Town Council from its inception in 2009 until 2023 and played a vital role in shaping the Council’s early direction and was a constant and loyal advocate for the town.

Her work across the Bare ward in particular was extensive and tireless, and she remained deeply involved in community matters throughout her time in office.

June was also an enormous charity champion, and stepped down from the board of trustees of Citizens Advice North Lancashire, after 34 years of service, last September.

Born and raised in the local area, June spent most of her life in Morecambe.

A spokesperson for Morecambe Town Council said: ‘’Her roots and commitment to the town ran deep. She was known not only for her civic service but also for the grace, warmth and kindness she showed to all she worked with.

‘’June will be greatly missed by all who knew her, including fellow councillors, residents, and friends across Morecambe and beyond. Her legacy of dedication, service and dignity will not be forgotten.’’

A funeral service will take place at 11:30am on Monday 21st July 2025 at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium, followed by refreshments at Morecambe Golf Club.

All who wish to pay their respects are welcome to attend.