We are very sad to hear that former Chesterfield Borough Council Deputy leader, Alderman Terry Gilby has died.
Toby Perkins MP said: “Terry has left a huge legacy after a lifetime of commitment to the Borough of Chesterfield and the Labour Party. As the Council’s statement reflects, he was an innovative, thoughtful and brave politician who was liked and respected by colleagues, opponents and all who came across him. His passing will be a huge loss to all who knew him, my thoughts are with Tricia and his wider family at this very sad time.
The full tribute to Alderman Terry Gilby from Chesterfield Borough Council is below:
Press Release
Date: 3 September 2025
Tribute to Alderman Terry Gilby, former Mayor of Chesterfield and Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council
It is with deep sadness that Chesterfield Borough Council announces the death of Alderman Terry Gilby.
Terry was first elected as a ward councillor for Brimington North in 1987 and served the people of Chesterfield borough with great distinction for 36 years, stepping down from his role in May 2023.
During his time on the council, Terry served as the 359th Mayor of Chesterfield from 1999 to 2000 – attending more than 500 engagements and raising more than £26,000 for his chosen charity, the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Breast Screening service.
Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Terry was a well-known and much-loved councillor, and it’s with deep sadness that we share news of his passing.
“Terry worked tirelessly and diligently in the various roles which he held at the council across the best part of four decades, and he championed many causes and projects on behalf of Chesterfield’s communities.
“Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Additional to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people of Brimington North, Terry served on multiple committees, and also as Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet member for Economic Growth, during his time in office at Chesterfield Borough Council. His impressive roll call includes:
- Vice Chair of the council’s Planning Committee from May 1987
- Chair of the council’s Development Committee from May 1992
- Appointed to the council’s first Cabinet in May 1999 as Lead Member for Community Development, Property and Transport
- Appointed Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Planning in May 2011 and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth in May 2017
In September 2023, Terry was recognised for his eminent services to the council and to the people of Chesterfield, receiving the honorary title of Alderman. At the ceremony, his colleagues reflected on some of Terry’s many and varied achievements.
Terry was instrumental in taking action to save Barrow Hill Engine Shed from closure, safeguarding this important site for its history and recognising its potential to become the thriving hub for commercial rail operations that it is today.
Terry was the architect of the council’s award-winning ‘Percent for Art’ scheme, which has led to over 70 art installations across Chesterfield borough. He also championed the introduction of ‘local labour clauses’ in to planning consents to ensure that local people benefitted from new developments. The latter scheme has delivered hundreds if not thousands of job and apprenticeship opportunities for local people and seen millions of pounds injected into the local economy over the last decade.
Terry was also active in taking on roles outside of the council – supporting local charities. This included 17 years as a trustee for Ashgate Hospice, and as a Non-Executive Director from 2011 to 2018. Terry was also Chair of Ashgate Hospice’s Personnel Committee and a member of the sub-group that oversaw the construction of the new day unit. Terry also served for many years as a Governor on Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Alderman Terry Gilby died peacefully on Tuesday 2 September following a period of ill health.
Terry was husband to Councillor Tricia Gilby, who is currently Leader of the council, and he leaves three children, five grandchildren, two stepchildren and three step-grandchildren.
Funeral details will be shared in due course.
ENDS
Media enquiries: Please contact Mandy Atkinson at Chesterfield Borough Council: [email protected]
Mandy Atkinson
Head of Communications and Marketing
Chesterfield Borough Council
Town Hall, Rose Hill, Chesterfield, S40 1LP
07305981027
Website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk