A CIVIC service of thanksgiving has been held to mark the term in office of former Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Doreen Lee.

The service, at Bradford Cathedral, was by invitation only and full social distancing measures were followed.

Due to the pandemic, Cllr Lee – who represents Keighley East ward on Bradford Council – served as Lord Mayor for an unprecedented two years.

She said: “Carrying out the role of Lord Mayor of Bradford was one of the best experiences of my life.

“To represent all the residents of the Bradford district was a huge honour.

“I could never imagine back in 2019 when I started my term in office what would lie ahead and that it would be filled with such happiness and also such sadness.

“I want to thank everyone in our district for the support they gave to me and for supporting one another. I will never forget my experiences, they will bring me so much joy.”

Council leader, Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, pays tribute.

She said: “Doreen has been a great ambassador for the city and district at a time when we all needed her the most.”