Tributes have been paid to former Pendle mayor and councillor

James, who was born in Nelson, was a champion of the community.

He represented the villages of Roughlee, Barley, Newchurch and Higham for 12 years as a councillor for Pendle Borough Council and was Mayor of Pendle from May 2018 to May 2019.

He was also a member of Pendle Partnership, improving facilities across the whole Pendle area.

He was educated at Higham School, then Nelson Grammar School and Nelson and Colne College where his love of art, graphics and attention to detail began to develop.

From there he spent a year at Lancaster college completing a foundation course in art and then Salford College to further his skills in graphic design. 

His career in advertising began at the Lancashire Evening Telegraph working in telesales.

James later set up his own advertising company called Morgan Advertising and worked with many local companies including Boundary Mill, which he served successfully in all aspects of advertising for many years.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the death of our dear friend and colleague James Starkie.

“With his great personal charm and sound business approach he was well-respected and worked tirelessly to make sure Pendle residents got a good deal.

“We offer our sincere condolences to James’ family. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.”

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Borough Council’s Conservative Group, said: “I was deeply saddened to hear that James Starkie had passed away. 

“James was a community champion who worked so hard for his residents and contributed so much to Pendle. He was a kind, helpful and caring person with a huge personality.

“He always had a smile on his face which was affectionate, and he made others smile too.  I feel that not only have we lost a former colleague but a dear friend who will be missed by all those who knew him.  My thoughts and prayers are with James's family and friends at this difficult time. RIP.”

Councillor Sarah Cockburn-Price added: “The Conservative Group and I believe all councillors who served with former Mayor, James Starkie, will be deeply saddened to hear of his passing. 

“He enlivened proceedings in turgid Council meetings with witty repartee and good-natured banter. 

“A larger-than-life character, he came across as light-hearted, but, in fact, he was extremely passionate about the area he served so devotedly: Pendleside. 

“He attended all the Parish Council meetings and was truly embedded in village life. 

“He was an advocate for his ward and for Pendle and we will treasure our happy memories of him."

The funeral will take place at 11am on Friday 22 September at St John's Church in Higham.