Tributes paid as Mayor of Cardiff dies

Jane Henshaw has been described as a 'beacon of hope and kindness'

Cardiff is mourning the loss of its Lord Mayor. Councillor Jane Henshaw passed away peacefully, surrounded by family this weekend, the council has announced..

She had officially taken up the role in May this year and chose Cardiff Food Bank as her nominated charity, a cause she said was close to her heart. As a mark of respect, flags will fly at half-mast from council buildings across Cardiff, as the city marks her passing.

A statement from Cardiff Council said she was known for her "unwavering dedication and service to the community, and leaves behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to public service".

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Council leader, Councillor Huw Thomas, expressed his deep sorrow, saying, "The passing of Cllr Jane Henshaw is a profound loss for Cardiff. She was a tireless advocate for our city and its residents, always striving to make Cardiff a better place for everyone. Her dedication to public service will not be forgotten, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her."

Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Helen Lloyd Jones, shared her condolences, saying, "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. Her commitment to helping those in need was truly inspiring. She had a unique ability to connect with people and make them feel valued. She was proud to be Lord Mayor of Cardiff and of the Lord Mayor's Own Scout Troop. We will miss her."

Chief executive, Paul Orders, also paid tribute, stating, "Cllr Henshaw's kindness, grace and desire to help those in need left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a source of compassion to so many. The Lord Mayor's empathy and support for staff were second to none. Our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time."

Councillor Henshaw represented the Splott ward and had been serving as a Labour councillor since 2017. Her tenure was marked by numerous achievements, including initiatives to improve local infrastructure, support for community projects, and efforts to promote cultural and social inclusivity.

She was deeply committed to addressing food insecurity and poverty in the community. Speaking when taking up her role as Lord Mayor, Cllr 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."

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

Her family wishes to thank all the staff at The University Hospital of Wales, Velindre Cancer Centre and Marie Curie Hospice for their support, care and kindness. A private family funeral will be followed by a Memorial Service.