Sheffield's last surviving Alderman who completed 35 bombing operations with RAF before entering politics dies aged 97

Sheffield’s last surviving Alderman has died at the age of 97.
Henry 'Jock' SturrockHenry 'Jock' Sturrock
Henry 'Jock' Sturrock

Henry “Jock” Sturrock completed 35 bombing operations with the RAF before entering politics.

In 1970 he became an Alderman on Sheffield Council, one of 25 senior councillors elected by fellow members, rather than being voted in by the public.

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He once said: “I’m the last surviving Alderman and the last surviving chairman of the old South Yorkshire County Council. I’m also the last survivor of my RAF bomber crew.

“Having Aldermen was a great idea as you always had a core of 25 experienced council members who could explain things to new councillors.”

He is believed to be the last Alderman to be elected because four years later, the South Yorkshire County Council was created and the roles were abolished at Sheffield Council.

He lived in Wincobank, Sheffield, with his wife Bet, who died last year.

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They leave two sons, Andrew and Robert, five grandchildren, David, Adam, Jenny, Bronte and Ella and three great grandchildren, Alex, Rowan and Henry.

Granddaughter Jenny Shevlin paid tribute. “My Grandy was an amazing man. He was a proud Yorkshireman and Scot, a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, Grandy and great-Grandy.

“We will miss him dearly – his stories, his wit, his selflessness and kindness. His tenaciousness has been a great influence on my life.”

A funeral will take place on Monday (Jul 19) at 12 noon at Grenoside Crematorium. It is open to all.

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