Tributes pour in for Mayo man who served as Mayor of Kirklees

A native of Kiltimagh who went on to become Mayor of a major English borough has died, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and community members on both sides of the Irish Sea.

Cahal Burke, 48, of Cordarragh, Kiltimagh, died on March 9 at his home in Lindley, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, where he had lived and served as a public representative for many years.

Burke had represented Huddersfield's Lindley ward on Kirklees Council since 2010 and served as Mayor of Kirklees in 2023–2024.

Fellow Lindley councillor Anthony Smith, who described Burke as his closest friend and best man at his wedding last year, led the tributes. "Cahal really was a community champion and an absolute joy to work with," he said.

"His death will leave a huge hole in our lives and our community, and an even bigger legacy."

Kirklees Lib Dem leader Cllr John Lawson said the news had left colleagues in shock, while a council spokesperson confirmed flags flew at half-mast over Kirklees town halls as a mark of respect.

Beyond his council duties, Burke had founded the Lindley Community Group, which he chaired for over 15 years, and established Lindley Running Club.

Cahal is survived by his father Aiden, Cordarragh, Kiltimagh, his daughters Shannon, Sinéad and Annie, and his sisters Jeannette, Maeve and Carla.

He was the beloved only son of the late Sadie Burke.

A statement on his death notice reads, "He leaves behind a proud legacy in his family, his community and the many people he helped along the way."

Funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.