Josie Farrington left an outstanding legacy in Lancashire, where she chaired the education committee of Lancashire county council. I was leader of the council from 1981 to 1997, and despite the cuts imposed by Thatcher administrations in the 1980s, Josie pioneered grants for female returners to work, expanded education for the under-fives and promoted wider participation in further and higher education.
She also represented Lancashire with distinction on the Association of County Councils (later the Local Government Association) and went on to become a highly respected national and European figure.
Josie was committed to improving opportunities for all and always remained close to her Lancashire roots. She was diplomatic yet firm and, above all, a very likable person. People warmed to her. She will be sadly missed.
