Tributes after death of former Wigan Council leader Lord Peter Smith
Lord Smith spent 27 years leading the council, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the country
Last updated 3rd Aug 2021
Tributes have been paid to Lord Peter Smith who has died three years after stepping down as Leader of Wigan Council.
Lord Smith spent 27 years leading the council, making him one of the longest serving leaders in the country, and in 2019 he was recognised with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
Lord Smith served as Leader of Wigan Council since 1991 and over the past three decades gained a reputation as one of the most influential council leaders in the UK.
In paying tribute to his public service, leading figures in local government described Lord Smith as “an inspirational leader” and “the glue that held Greater Manchester together” when he stepped down as council leader in May 2018.
Lord Smith, who started his career in local government when he was elected as a Labour Party ward councillor for Leigh West in 1978, gained his political reputation in council finance, moving from chairman of the finance committee for nine years into council leader.
His success as council leader led to many regional and national appointments throughout the 1980s and 1990s including chair of the North West Regional Assembly and vice-president of the Local Government Association.
In 1999 he was made Lord Smith of Leigh in recognition of his work in local government.
Councillor David Molyneux, leader of Wigan Council, led the tributes.
Councillor Molyneux said: “Peter was not just a remarkable leader and councillor, but a husband, a dad and a very good friend.
“His death will leave a very big hole in people’s hearts, including mine. It was an honour to serve alongside him as his deputy and I will miss his wisdom and friendship.
“He achieved so many great things for Wigan Borough and will leave a lasting legacy.”