Tributes paid after former lord mayor dies aged 77

A former lord mayor of Birmingham who has died at the age of 77 has been remembered as someone with "undimmed passion and enthusiasm" for the city.

Honorary Alderman John Alden, who was lord mayor in 2003/04 and represented Harbone on the city council, died peacefully on 6 January, the Birmingham Local Conservative Group said.

His son Robert Alden, the group's current leader on the council, described him as a wonderful man who cared deeply about helping people in need.

"He gave more than 33 years to the city, always willing to try and help people no matter the time or day," Mr Alden said.

"The city is a worse-off place with his passing. We will always miss him."

John Alden was a Conservative councillor for Harborne from 1983 to 2012 and from 2014 until he retired in 2018.

During his tenure as lord mayor, he represented the city at the British High Commission in India, opened the New Bull Ring Shopping Centre and raised thousands of pounds for charity.

He also served as Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture from 2004 to 2006.

He was deputy leader of the Conservative group from 1996 to 2000 and was its leader in 1997.

The group's current deputy leader Ewan Mackey said he was struck by Mr Alden's passion and enthusiasm when he first met him before serving alongside him between 2014 and 2018.

"That passion and enthusiasm continued undimmed for that whole period, supplemented by his great dedication and sound judgement. He will be sorely missed," he added.

Mr Alden leaves behind his wife Deirdre Alden who is also a councillor, sons Robert and Thomas, and five grandchildren.

His funeral is scheduled to take place on 31 January, where there will be a collection for the Salvation Army.

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