Jim Tierney, who died last week, represented West Finchley ward for 24 years before retiring in 2018

The mayor of Barnet has joined local party leaders in paying tribute to a long-serving Labour councillor who died last week.

Jim Tierney, who represented West Finchley ward between 1994 and his retirement in 2018, died on 29th January. He was a member of the council’s cabinet between 1999 and 2002.

Leader the tributes, Cllr Danny Rich said: “Jim served as a Barnet councillor for almost a quarter of a century, and his life was one of service, dedication and commitment to the people of Barnet. When Jim stepped down, I was selected to replace him.

“Apart from his generous endorsement, I can’t tell you how many times I was asked on doorsteps ‘Where is Jim?’ He will be missed by us all, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this sad time.”

Barnet Council’s Labour leader, Barry Rawlings, said: “For more than 20 years Jim had been a dear friend, colleague and mentor. He was always a supportive councillor and diligent and conscious of his work. On behalf of Barnet Council, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him.”

Conservative opposition, Peter Zinkin, said: “It was with immense sadness that I learnt of Jim’s passing. He worked tirelessly on behalf of those living in his ward and above all, he was always a polite, friendly, and a great character to everyone he met. He will be sorely missed by colleagues and ex-colleagues across the council, and by the residents of Barnet.”

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