In a remarkable demonstration of resilience, Tony Dale, the Liberal Democrat councillor for Northleach, has made a triumphant return to the Cotswold District Council cabinet following a devastating car accident in Italy during the summer of 2024.
During a family holiday in July 2024, Dale’s hire car was violently rear-ended by a lorry, leaving him severely injured with a collapsed lung, broken ribs, a severed carotid artery, and critical spinal damage. Airlifted to a hospital in Padua, he faced a grim 50/50 chance of survival. Defying the odds, Dale underwent emergency surgery and spent three weeks in intensive care abroad before continuing his recovery in the UK, including six months at the Salisbury Spinal Treatment Centre.
Throughout his recovery, Dale was buoyed by the unwavering support of his wife, family, fellow councillors, and over 500 visitors. Now, just one year after the accident, he steps into the role of cabinet member for health, culture, and visitor experience, succeeding Paul Hodgkinson who recently stepped down.
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Commenting on his return, Cllr Dale expressed enthusiasm for the new responsibilities ahead: “It’s great to be rejoining the cabinet. I look forward to collaborating with partners and council officers to enhance the health and wellbeing of our residents, expand access to culture, and implement the Cotswolds’ parking strategy approved last December.”
Outgoing cabinet member Paul Hodgkinson reflected on his tenure, saying, “It has been a privilege to serve as cabinet member for health, culture, and visitor experience. I’m stepping down to focus on my roles at Gloucestershire County Council and as the prospective Liberal Democrat MP for North Cotswolds.”
Council leader Mike Evemy welcomed Dale’s return, noting, “Tony brings invaluable experience and expertise to the cabinet. We thank Paul for his dedicated service and wish him success in his new roles.”
Tony Dale’s inspiring journey from life-threatening injury back to leadership underscores his commitment to serving the Cotswold community.