CCC Discussion Forum

Jim Buchanan Tribute Page

Cumbria County Council Discussion Forum: Jim Buchanan Tribute Page

Cumbria County Council's Leader Jim Buchanan has sadly died just weeks after being diagnosed with cancer. If you would like to leave a Tribute to Jim on this page please do so.

By Forum Administrator (admin) on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 12:23 pm:

Jim Buchanan
1942 - 2010

By Joanne Claxton - Council/General Moderator (jlc) on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 11:54 am:

"I first met Jim when he became the portfolio holder for Children's Services. He was just the most lovely man, he always had time to listen, always remembered my name and I will remember his laugh and stories about lambing with great affection. He will be greatly missed and a huge loss to Cumbria." - Jane Lees

By Joanne Claxton - Council/General Moderator (jlc) on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 11:55 am:

"I have fond memories of Jim as a fun-loving, hard-working, no-nonsense person who was genuinely in it to make a difference. For a politician, he was amazingly non-political and never allowed himself to get bogged down in the small stuff, always keeping an eye on the bigger picture. I knew he was once a vet - but I never pictured him as a fancy microsurgery and scalpels type of vet, more of a good old-fashioned roll your sleeves up, five yards of rope and a wet towel sort. He was a bit like that in life too - nothing too fancy and fussy, but always effective. Rest in peace Jim, you'll be sorely missed." - Gareth Cosslett, Media Manager

By Joanne Claxton - Council/General Moderator (jlc) on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 11:55 am:

"Jim and I were opponents, but never enemies. We always spoke together after clashing in the Chamber and I know that Jim cared deeply about the future of our County. The floods were a very testing situation and he proved himself as a Leader by his actions. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time." - Peter Thornton - Councillor Kirkby Stephen

By Debra Taylor - Local Committee Finance on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 01:29 pm:

Jim always had a kind word and a carefully thought out plan. He was one of a kind, a gentle man and I am sure everyone will agree a depth of strength that is not found often these days. You will be missed at Allerdale Local Committee and Cabinet and Council. A great councillor, colleague and pal. Farewell Jim xx

By Cumbria Tourism, Staveley on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 02:03 pm:

Cumbria Tourism extends its condolences to Jim's family and many friends and colleagues. We are well aware of the depth of the feeling towards Jim as a councillor and his efforts following last year's extreme weather.

By Louise Doran, Carlisle Library on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 02:18 pm:

I knew Jim from my job at The Courts Reception; Jim always had a smile and time to stop and chat; always asked me how I was - he was such a lovely genuine man - the kind of person who brightens up your day. Thank you Jim - you will be missed very much x

By Cllr Elaine Woodburn, Leader of Copeland Borough Council on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:05 pm:

I have only worked with Jim since he became the Leader of the Council, but in that short time I always found him to be courteous, professional and a real gentleman at all times.

Jim was well spoken with a clear desire to do what needed to be done for the better of Cumbria. Even in his short time in the role, he made major changes and drives forward which will have a long-term impact on the area.

The thoughts of everyone at Copeland go out to Jim's family and friends at this time.

By Cllr Stewart Young, Deputy Leader and Leader of the Labour Group. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:15 pm:

"It is a great shock, Jim will be a huge miss. He was a skilled politician who was able to rise above party politics in order to secure the best outcomes for the people of Cumbria."

By Cllr Eddie Martin, Leader of the Conservative Group. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:16 pm:

"It's all happened so quickly, it seems like yesterday that Jim was leading the council with all the vim and vigour he was known for. My pride at being appointed Conservative Group Leader is tinged with an enormous sadness at the news of Jim's death. Everyone who knew and worked with Jim liked and respected him for what he was - a down-to-earth, clear-thinking, decisive, strong leader who loved life and also had a wonderful sense of humour. I will work hard to honour Jim's memory by being as committed to public service as he was."

By Cllr Ian Stewart, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:17 pm:

"Our thoughts are with Jim's family at this tragic time. Jim will be remembered with fondness and respect by all his colleagues and friends. He showed calm and purposeful leadership during the November floods and was committed to making a difference in Cumbria."

By Cllr Trevor Fee, Leader of the Independent Group. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:18 pm:

"I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Jim's death. I worked closely alongside Jim on Allerdale Local Committee and he was just a great, down-to-earth person who always had time for other people. I will sadly miss him both on a personal and professional level."

By Jill Stannard, chief executive of Cumbria County Council. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 03:19 pm:

"It's extremely sad news. We are all stunned by how quickly Jim declined. The fact that Jim was still working full-time as our Leader just last month shows how strong he remained until the end. He was a fighter, enormously respected by both officers and members, and he remained committed to improving services for Cumbrians.

By bill jefferson on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 04:15 pm:

It's only a few weeks since we drove down to Wigan together and talked non-stop about the future of Cumbria. On our return we stood outside his home and looked down over twilight on the Solway Plain. I cannot believe he has gone like this. A fine man, a good friend and colleague who always saw beyond the narrow spectrum of party politics and gave everything he could for the good of Cumbria. A tragic loss and our thoughts are for his memory and for his family - a family man through and through. We shall all miss him very much.

Bill Jefferson Chairman Lake District National Park Authority

By Prof John Ashton - NHS Cumbria on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 04:36 pm:

"Jim Buchanan in his short time as leader has provided an example of putting the interests of the people of Cumbria first, and above that of party politics. He also demonstrated the richness which can come when somebody with immense experience in his own field of endeavour, in this case in veterinary medicine, takes a second wind in retirement and applies that experience to the benefit of others.

"Let's hope that his example will encourage others to come forward and take part in Cumbrian civic life.

"Cumbria has lost one of its leading sons."

By Phil Robinson, 4NW Chief Executive on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 05:04 pm:

On behalf of all of the staff of 4NW and Regional Leaders Board Members I would like to express our shock and deep sadness at the news of Jim's untimely death. At the Leaders Board Jim always spoke passionately for the people of Cumbria, especially after last year's floods, and he will be very greatly missed.

Phil Robinson
4NW Chief Executive

By Victor de Quincey on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 05:26 pm:

It has been an honour and privilege to have known Jim he will be sadly missed within the parishes and county, our thoughts and prayers will be with his family.
Victor de Quincey
Vice chair Bothel and Threapland P.C.
Chair Allerdale CALC.

By keith little on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 07:26 pm:

Jim, Told me not long after we met that his word was his bond, over the last five years I've been proud to be a colleague and a friend, I have always found what he told me to be absolutely correct. Jim always seen the possitive side, he had a can do attitude which was very much what the Leader of the Council needed. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

By James Airey Deputy Leader Conservative Group. on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 09:44 pm:

Jim was always willing to listen and give sound advice especially to those of us who are new to the Council. I only met Jim when I joined the Council last year, I was immediately impressed by his leadership qualities, enthusiasm and genuine care for the people of Cumbria. It was a pleasure to work with him I shall miss him.

By David Claxton, Durdar on Friday, 09 April, 2010 - 10:17 pm:

Very sorry indeed to hear this tragic news. Jim was a great person to work with who put the interests of Cumbria above party politics and he will be sadly missed. Jim was a kind man who always took the time to ask after the health of my partner.

By Cllr Janice Barker, Aspatria Town Council, Aspatria on Saturday, 10 April, 2010 - 12:36 am:

It was a complete shock when I found out that Jim had died. Having only known Jim a short time through Aspatria Town Council, I always found him to be a lovely man, very professional and kind to everyone he met. He will be sadly missed by lots of people in Aspatria. My condolences go to Jims family.

By Alan Clouston Plumbland Parish Council on Saturday, 10 April, 2010 - 09:40 am:

I liked Jim. He said what he thought and did what he said. He was a good friend to this community and he will be sorely missed. I for one, am grateful to have known him.

By Jim Savege, Corporate Director, Cumbria County Council on Saturday, 10 April, 2010 - 09:49 am:

Working for Jim was an absolute privilege. He was a phenomenal individual and a great leader in all respects. He possessed such a wonderful combination of ambition, integrity, pragmatism, and humour. He had such a passion for Cumbria – a great loss for us all – but I know that our memories of Jim will last long and will continue to inspire.

By Tony Markley Cabinet Member C C C Silloth on Sunday, 11 April, 2010 - 08:49 am:

Jim you will be a huge miss to us all.
Your Ambitions and inspirations will always be with me in my thoughts.
The knowledge and inspirded way of working will be the legacy you leave for Cumvbria in knowing how you brought this County to work together for the good of all communities.
You were a great Leader and will be sorley missed.
It has been a priveledge to have worked with you as a Politican but most of all as personal friend.
My thoughts are with you and the much Loved Family you leave behind.

By mick farley on Sunday, 11 April, 2010 - 12:03 pm:

What a dreadful shock - and such a great loss to the County. It has been a real privilege to have known and worked with Jim. All our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
In deepest sympathy
Mick Farley

By a true Cumbrian on Sunday, 11 April, 2010 - 08:43 pm:

Jim was a long time friend and as everyone has pointed out a natural leader who was diplomatic but always to the point . A rare attribute that all council members should not forget and for that reason something should be named after him . The balls in your court !

By Chris Whiteside, Copeland Councillor and Conservative PC for Copeland on Sunday, 11 April, 2010 - 11:16 pm:

Jim showed in his tragically short time as Leader of the County Council that he had a huge amount to offer in that role. His death is a huge loss to Cumbria and he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers will be with his family at this sad time.

By Kevin Douglas,Chief Executive ,Eden DC on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 09:20 am:

In his short time as Leader Jim did a fantastic job of building trust and understanding between public agencies in the County and was instrumental in achieving the new leadership structures in Cumbria which will,hopefully,continue to be successful and be his lasting legacy.
He will be sadly missed by everyone involved in local government in Cumbria.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time

By Bruce Bennison on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 09:28 am:

After the floods of November last year I had an idea to put on a CCC Concert for Cumbria to raise funds and to mark all the hard work of the rescue services involved. It needed the formal support of the Leader and when I approached Jim he said 'just do it' - no questions, no hesitation. In the end we got Lesley Garrett and Brian Blessed and we raised over £12,000. Without him it would not have happened.

By joe cowell on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 10:13 am:

The sad news of Jim’s death was a shock to everyone who knew him. In the all too short time he was Leader of the County Council, his qualities, not just as a politician but as a wonderful person was apparent to all. He was a quiet, and a thinking man who loved Cumbria and its people. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered throughout the community, our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

By Anne Fletcher Cockermouth on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 12:01 pm:

As the retired Parish Clerk to Ireby and Uldale Parish Council I came across Jim on many occasions. He was a true gentleman, his word was his bond and an asset to the community. My sympathy goes out to his family at this sad time.

By Jude Beattie on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 12:26 pm:

Jim always had a smile and shared his laughter with you, a lovely kind gentle man, it was fantastic to work with him, he shall be missed and remembered by all who knew him. My sympathy goes to his family at this very sad time.

By harry.dyke on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 12:44 pm:

I knew Jim for only a short time but that was sufficient for me to appreciate his passion for Cumbria and Cumbrians.He was predominantly interested in promoting the interests of local people and was doing a great job in developing a trust amongst public sector partners. He will be greatly missed. The thoughts of all officers and members of Allerdale Council go out to Jim's family and friends at this sad time.

By Graham Roberts on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 01:10 pm:

I did not realise how ill Jim was, but his passing has been a great shock and personal sadness to me.

Jim had a unique skill of making everyone feel at ease and included in whatever role.

All of us who knew him will miss his calm approach to chaos, and inspired expertise in making things happen.

By Cumbrian family from Silloth on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 01:33 pm:

"Gentleman Jim". A truly down to earth, inspirational Cumbrian family man with true values and a love of Cumbria and it's people. An outstanding Leader who was dedicated to making a difference to Cumbria for all of us. A very hard act to follow. Your family must be overwhelmed with sadness but immensely proud.

By Trevor Gear on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 02:00 pm:

Jim worked hard for the benefit of Aspatria. He was always cheerful and passionate. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. The thoughts of Aspatria Town Council and Residents are with his family at this time.Trevor Gear, Mayor of Aspatria.

By Ian Gordon, NHS Cumbria on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 02:11 pm:

Jim’s warmth and optimism shone through in his work on behalf of the people of Cumbria. He will be sorely missed and the thoughts of everyone at NHS Cumbria are with his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.

Ian Gordon
Non-executive Director
NHS Cumbria

By Craig Mackey Chief Constable Cumbria Constabulary on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 03:34 pm:

During the November 2009 floods I worked closely with Jim and I was really impressed with his commitment towards doing the best for Cumbria. He was the ultimate professional and at the same time understood what made a difference to local communities. Jim will be sadly missed and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

By Steve Park former Head of Communication Cumbria County Council on Monday, 12 April, 2010 - 09:11 pm:

The stock of our elected politicians has taken a battering in recent times. But Jim was a man apart. He stood for those good old fashioned down to earth values - honesty, hard work and doing your best for the people you serve. I saw first hand how he battled for Cumbria in the aftermath of the floods, making sure the county had a voice in the corridors of power. He did it all with great humour and charm. Everything he did came from the heart because Jim loved Cumbria; the people and the place. We all owe him and enormous debt and his legacy will be long and lasting. He will be sorely missed.

By Dr John Collins, North Area Manager, Environment Agency on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 09:34 am:

I met Jim Buchanan a few times in the aftermath of the Cumbrian floods. He was clearly dedicated to achieving the very best for all Cumbrians. He argued passionately for the best deal for those affected by the floods, particularly those farmers, householders and small businesses most adversely impacted. At the same time, he listened carefully to what we had to say about what was achievable with the resources we had available.

I'm sure Jim will be sadly missed by his colleagues and those who have worked with him from many different organisations.

By Tony Wolfe on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 10:38 am:

Working to support Jim was the best job in the world. I will miss him.
Jim always brought a sense of proportion to the day to day trivia that clouds the work of the Council. He had a clear vision of what he wanted. He knew that he could only achieve real results for Cumbria by working across both the political divides and sharing with partners. His famous saying was JDI. Just do it.
God rest.

By Sue Stevenson on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 10:52 am:

I feel priviledged to have known and worked with such a wonderful man and exceptional leader. Like others, I had not know Jim for long but it felt like longer because of his very open and friendly manner. He will be sorely missed for his ability to build trust and to bring people together. He provided the leadership needed to help develop the new countywide leadership model through the Cumbria Strategic Partnership which I sincely hope will go from strength to strength in his memory. He will be very sadly missed by all who knew him.

By Local Committee for Barrow on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 01:07 pm:

It was with great sadness that members of Cumbria County Council’s Local Committee for Barrow heard of the sudden and untimely passing of County Councillor Jim Buchanan.

He was a friend to all and a particular source of inspiration to the many new members. All members, regardless of political persuasion, appreciated his open and honest leadership style.

Our sincere and heartfelt sympathies are extended to Jim’s family at this very sad time.

Local Committee for Barrow

By Moira Swann on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 01:40 pm:

Jim Buchanan – a very special leader, a very special politician and a very, very special man. I wish I had been able to say “Thank You”. Jim’s presence and influence will be missed by all in Cumbria.

Moira Swann - Director of Children's Services, CCC

By Michael Hyatt on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 01:41 pm:

What very sad news. Jim was a really powerful and effective advocate for Cumbria - something I've more recently, but still very clearly seen from afar. As so many others have said he was also a really genuine, friendly and trustworthy man. A reminder of the very best of local politics.

Michael

By Brenda Wile on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 02:09 pm:

So sad to hear of this dreadful news. Jim was such a lovely man, he listened, he respected and he cared. I didn't know him for long, but am sure that Cumbria will be alot less 'rich' without his wisdom. My thoughts to Jim's family at this time. Their memories of him, will, I'm sure be a comfort.

By David Higham Deputy Regional Director Government Office for the North West on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 02:45 pm:

On behalf of all of us at Government Office for the North West, I would like to express our shock at this sad news. Jim had made a real difference in the short time he had been Leader both in terms of building stronger partnerships and in the steady and sensitive leadership he showed during the floods. He was a powerful and effective advocate for Cumbria within regional and national fora. Our thoughts are with Jim's family at this difficult time. Cumbria will be a poorer place without him.

By Tim Heslop on Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 - 05:19 pm:

Jim Buchanan was a gentleman first and a politician second. He was determined to make a difference for Cumbria. His efforts on behalf of the County after the floods were tremendous.It was an honour and a pleasure to work with Jim as a friend and colleague. He will be greatly missed

Tim Heslop Leader Allerdale Borough council

By Andrew Moss - Assistant Director Highways and Transport on Wednesday, 14 April, 2010 - 12:10 pm:

I only got to know Jim recently but what a great guy he proved to be, a true gentleman and all round good, honest, hard working person. My sympathies go to his wife and family who I hope are comforted by the fact he will be well remembered by all who knew him.

By Vanessa from Allerdale on Wednesday, 14 April, 2010 - 10:05 pm:

Jim was professional, fair, honest, hard working and a true gentleman. Above all he cared passionately about the future of Cumbria and the welfare of it's residents. His passing is a great loss to all of us but my sincere condolences go to his family and friends.

By kendra coates on Thursday, 15 April, 2010 - 09:33 am:

I first met Jim when he became the Lead Member for Children's Services. We enjoyed many chats about his work on the farm during the lambing season. Jim always had time to ask how you were; he was so approachable; he recently helped me progress a piece of work, which without his assistance, I could not have brought to a successful conclusion. Thank you Jim. I am extremely saddened by his passing and he will be greatly missed by us all. He was totally committed to working to improve the life chances of children and families in Cumbria. A true gentleman and a true professional - an excellent example for us all to follow. My sincere condolences go to his family at this very sad time.

By Staff Employer Cabinet Sub-Committee on Thursday, 15 April, 2010 - 01:05 pm:

On hearing the sad news members of the Staff Employer Sub-Committee were united in their appreciation of Jim's achievements for the people of Cumbria, remembering him as a thoughtful, genuine and caring man as well as a successful politician. They wish to pass their sincere condolences to Jim's family.

By South Lakeland District Council on Thursday, 15 April, 2010 - 02:10 pm:

Staff and Councillors at South Lakeland District Council were sad to hear of the death of Cllr Jim Buchanan. The council would like to extend its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time. During his leadership, Cllr Buchanan helped to strengthen the council’s partnership with the County Council and showed strong leadership during the floods. He will be greatly missed.

By nevturn on Thursday, 15 April, 2010 - 10:27 pm:

I was at school with Jim from 1955 to 1961, and at veterinary college with him from 1962 to 1968.
It was clear that his common sense and wisdom would leave its mark in the community, and it is comforting that Cumbrians have had the benefit of these remarkable qualities.
Jim was a good man, and I am grateful that I shared a friendship with him.
Neville Turner, Barnard Castle

By Helen Smith on Friday, 16 April, 2010 - 11:42 am:

I met Jim when I first came to Cumbria and he was chair of the Corporate Parenting Panel. I found him then to be a very genuine and caring man and my opinion of him has not changed. He was an inspiration. My thoughts are with his family

By Gary McKeating on Saturday, 17 April, 2010 - 08:34 pm:

Nuclear Management Partners would like to extend its condolences to Jim's family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.
Gary McKeating
Head of Socio Economics

By Michael L . from Ulverston. on Tuesday, 20 April, 2010 - 09:34 pm:

As with John Smith MP, whose headstone on Iona reads " An Honest Man is the noble work of God ", may Jim's honest and vigorous self-sacrificing attempts at improving the lot of his fellow Cumbrians be deeply appreciated in loving memory by all who knew him or, like myself, who simply heard about his great work through others.

Home	Topics	Last Day	Last Week	Tree View	New Messages	Search
Contact	User Profile	Getting Started	Formatting	Trouble Shooting	Credits