Sir Jack Smart has been one of the stalwarts of democracy in Castleford, Wakefield and nationally for many decades and his counsel will be sorely missed.

He was always ready to give immediate advice or point you in the right direction referring to his wide network of contacts on any issue affecting those in his purview. His dialogue has always been responsible and constructive as recently as a few months ago.

In no matter was he more vocal than in matters affecting his own town of Castleford. You have only to look around the town to see testimony of his lifelong work for the community.

He will be remembered affectionately for many years to come by those of us having had the pleasure to work alongside him. Yorkshire, Wakefield and Castleford owe him and his wife Lady Ethel as his lifelong supporter a deep sense of gratitude.