Tributes to Blackpool's '˜dedicated servant'

Tributes have been paid to former mayor Eddie Collett

Council colleagues yesterday paid tribute to Tyldesley ward councillor Eddie Collett, 58 – now, scores of people from the community have come forward to pay their respects.

Mr Collett was a lecturer at Blackpool and The Fylde College and held a number of important cabinet roles, including deputy leader, in the Town Hall.

And he was also a key player in Blackpool’s Labour Party for more than 25 years.

He leaves wife Heather, son David, daughter Sian and grandson Henry.

Bev Robinson, principal and chief executive of Blackpool and the Fylde College, where Mr Collett worked as a specialist practitioner in its School of Access and Continuing Education, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Eddie Collett who was a well-respected and highly valued member of the staff team.

“He will be much missed by all at B&FC. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Here’s just a few of the tributes to Mr Collett made by readers via www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk and our Facebook page:

I respected Eddie and appreciated his kindly, compassionate ways. He truly is a great loss to the town.

lmb3

Eddie was without doubt a real gentleman. He spent many hours balancing his work commitment at Symbol’s biscuits with his council role and putting others before himself. I had the pleasure of working with Eddie on the night shift for over 10 years.

He helped me on several occasions with council problems and I know he helped so many other people. He was the champion of the less fortunate people of Blackpool and enjoyed helping anyone needing help when he could. The last time I spoke to Eddie he was working as a teacher and was on a training course. Eddie was a good friend, a great councillor, a good work colleague and a loving family man, he will be sadly missed by everyone who knows him. God bless Eddie, rest in peace.

Blackpool North Action Group

A very good friend of my wife. Sorry to hear the news. Thoughts are with Heather and the family.

SouthShoreBlue

Very sad and far too young. Blackpool has lost a dedicated servant. Thoughts with his family.

GambaKufu

He once called in my shop while in the area ,had a look around , and was a very nice person to speak to ,was more than happy to have a photo taken too . RIP

ric55

Coun Eddie Collett was an outstanding councillor, trades unionist and a genuine, honest, understanding member of the human race – anyone who met him couldn’t fail to smile at his wit – dry humour and genuine interest in people. He will be sadly missed by many across the town. RIP Eddie – thank-you for your service to this town. Condolences must go to his family at this sad time. RIP

MartonVoice

My friend and much-loved work colleague. You will be missed by so many. Such a lovely man who stood up for everyone. Will miss you. You were ‘bloomin’ marvellous!’ RIP

Tracey Bradley

Eddie was an absolute gent and helped me so much when I started a new job. Can’t believe this sad news. Thinking about his family and friends.

Nikki Osborne-James

What tragic news, such a lovely man. He help me so much over the years, including fighting for my rights of my disability and badge. Thoughts go out to family and friends

Carly Ann Clegg

My husband Gordon and I had the pleasure of sitting next to Eddie at Bloomfield Rd for many seasons . Lovely man. Thoughts are with his family.

Ruth Pettigrew

RIP Eddie, you always said I made the best brews in Waterloo School when you dropped in

Lynn Turner

Very sad news. I remember him as the Mayor he was a very nice guy, accommodating and also had a full time job. RIP

Stephen Pierre