• Article |
• Discussion |
• Edit |
• History

Former Labour leader of Derby Borough Council John Dilks is pictured speaking at a May Day rally in Derby Market Place in 1964.

One of Derby’s most colourful pol- iticians of the last half-century John, who died in September 2005, became labelled as “a nearly man” after having fought and lost five Parliamentary elections for Labour.

However, he became leader of Derby’s Labour group when it was reduced to seven members in 1968 and went on to make his mark in local politics instead. Four years later, in 1972, John’s party ousted the Tories and he became leader of the council until 1976. Among his many close friends, including the late actor, Sir Alan Bates, he was best known for his often wicked humour, his larger-than-life character and his forthright socialist ideals, which were pretty old school Labour.

He made no secret of his dislike for Tony Blair’s New Labour and, in his later years, took the odd swipe at the Royal Family. He was also a prominent member of USDAW, the shop workers’ union, and served on the executive for several years.

A Labour man since boyhood, John is seen here, aged 31, campaigning for the 1964 General Election.

FEEDBACK

Did you enjoy this article? If so, why not comment on it? Perhaps you disagree with something in it, or you know something the writer doesn't and can add some extra facts. You may want to ask a question about this article. Making a contribution is easy - either click 'edit' to insert more information or 'discussion' and then 'add comment.' This is your site. Please feel free to use it to the full and share your memories, thoughts and knowledge about Derbyshire with others.

If there is no 'edit' link showing it means the article has either previously been published in the Derby Evening Telegraph, or it has been protected by the site administrator and cannot be edited.'

County:  Derbyshire

Return to You_and_Yesterday