Councillor to step down from his Wakefield seat after 17 years

He has decided not to stand for re-election after representing his ward for 17 years. Coun Hopkins said he wants to leave his post before celebrating his 80th birthday in September.

The Conservative councillor said: “Because of my age and health, I think it is about time I step down. I will miss the political involvement but hope to remain involved in projects in my ward.”

Coun Hopkins was pivotal in the formation of the Standbridge Lane Community Development Trust.

The group took over a derelict building and redeveloped it in to the popular Standbridge Community Centre.

Coun Hopkins was also involved in the Friends of Sandal Castle group.

He said: “Through the various groups we have a lot of events every year, which attract a couple of hundred people. I hope my contribution has made a difference.”

One of Coun Hopkins’ highlights was being elected Mayor of Wakefield in 2005.

He helped raise £29,500 for charity during his term, which was donated to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and initiatives promoting music and drama.

Coun Hopkins said: “Being mayor was quite an experience. You find out about so many good things in the district you did not know about.

“I did not want to go to events and just show my face but to go there and support the people and groups.”

Coun Hopkins, who served on the council’s planning committee for more than a decade, is now looking forward to enjoying his retirement.

He said: “My granddaughter is getting married in October and me and my wife have got a cruise trip to the Norwegian Fjords we have always planned to go on. I want to thank everyone who has supported me over the years.”