TRIBUTES have been paid at Neath Port Talbot Council’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) to the long serving former Baglan Ward member Cllr Peter Richards who passed away on Wednesday, 9th April, 2025.
A funeral service was held for Cllr Richards at St Catharine’s Church, Baglan, on Friday, May 2nd, 2025.
Cllr Richards was first elected to Neath Port Talbot Council in June 2004 and served continuously as one of the Baglan ward members until the time of his death.
He was originally elected as a representative of the Neath Port Talbot Ratepayers’ Association but joined the Labour Group in 2008 then becoming a Cabinet Member during the Labour administration period up until 2022.
Speaking at the AGM on Thursday, May 8th, 2025, the Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt, said: “I first met Peter in 2008, shortly after my election, and it was clear from the outset he was a person of exceptional kindness and unwavering support. Our friendship blossomed as we worked together on behalf of our community and I will always be grateful for his guidance and encouragement.
“Peter’s commitment went far beyond his own ward; he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the welfare of everyone living in Neath Port Talbot. As a cabinet member of the Labour administration, he approached his duties with both professionalism and dignity, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Also, his work with the Co-operative movement exemplified his passion for community and service.
”Peter was a true gentleman, a devoted colleague, and a cherished friend. His absence will be felt deeply by all of us, but his legacy of kindness and dedication will continue to inspire our work. We will miss him dearly.”
The Leader of the council’s Labour Group, Cllr Sonia Reynolds, added: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies must be with Peter’s family and close friends during this time of great loss.
“Peter was a dedicated and active Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services. I recall his invaluable support in 2017, when I and other newly elected councillors found ourselves thrown into the deep end of Social Services Scrutiny. His advice was readily available, thoughtful, wise, and always delivered with generosity—quick to offer praise where it was due and ever willing to guide others with care and experience.
“His commitment to local residents was unwavering. Many will have their own stories of Peter’s kindness, his readiness to help, and the guidance he offered without hesitation. He lived his Christian faith not only in belief but in action – through the way he treated people, served his community and lived his life with compassion and humility.
“Peter was loved in his community, valued within our group, and respected across this council. He will be deeply missed.”
