A COUNCILLOR who served the residents of Rhyl with "care, understanding and absolute respect" has died.

Cllr Win Mullen-James, who had served as mayor twice, died in hospital on Wednesday, May 1. She was married to cllr Alan James and had daughter Catherine and son Robert.

In a statement, Rhyl Town Council said that Cllr Mullen-James had represented Rhyl and the town council "impeccably" and with "great pride".

The statement on Thursday, May 2, said: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Councillor Mrs Win Mullen-James in hospital yesterday.

"Win had been unwell over the last few months, battling long-term illnesses in her usual determined and courageous way, which is why this will come as a shock to us all. We thought she would recover and regroup like she always has, and march on, but it wasn’t to be.

"Win came on to the Town Council in 2008 and has been serving the residents of the Trellewelyn Ward ever since, with care, understanding and absolute respect.

"She became mayor of Rhyl twice during these last 16 years. First in 2011/12 and again in 2018/19 and represented Rhyl and the Town Council impeccably and with great pride.

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"Win was so many things to so many of us. Strong and gracious. Loyal and supportive. Hard working and sweet natured, and always with good humour, positivity and what seemed like effortless style to boot.

"She will be greatly missed here at the town council and our love goes to her husband Councillor Alan James, her daughter Catherine, son Robert and to her grandchildren and the rest of her family and friends."

Cllr Mullen-James was also a county councillor. Cllr Mullen-James was elected to represent Rhyl South-East Ward from May 2012 until May 2017.

In May of 2022, cllr Mullen-James was elected to represent the Trellewelyn Ward in Rhyl and was the Lead Member for Local Development and Planning.

She was described as a valued member of Denbighshire County Council's Cabinet. 

She also sat on the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Joint Committee, Licensing Committee and Planning Committee. 

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council, said: "I was shocked and extremely saddened to hear the awful news. I have known Win for many years, through the Labour party, a councillor and more recently as a valued member of the cabinet.

"Win was an extremely hard working councillor who always put her residents first. As a cabinet member she was highly regarded and respected. Her years of public service is a testament to her dedication.

"I will miss her as a colleague and as a friend. All my thoughts are with her husband Alan and her wider family at this very difficult time."

Councillor Peter Scott, Chair of Denbighshire County Council, said: “Win will be sadly missed by all, especially Alan, who was a great help to me during my sad time, along with all the other councillors.

"I'm sure Pete P, Brian and Sue will have sorted out a place for her at God's top table.

"Alan, you and your family have my sympathy, but we will always have our precious memories. Goodbye Win.”

Councillor Scott continued: "On behalf of the entire council, I would like to express my deepest condolences to her husband, cllr Alan James, her family and friends. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”