Tony Dale, a Northleach councillor for the Cotswold District Council, has made an inspiring comeback by stepping into the role of cabinet member for health, culture, and visitor experience. His return follows a harrowing ordeal in July 2024 when a severe car accident in Italy left him fighting for his life.
During a family holiday, Tony’s hire car was violently struck from behind by a lorry. The impact resulted in catastrophic injuries, including a collapsed lung, multiple broken ribs, a severed carotid artery, and severe spinal trauma. Airlifted to a hospital in Padua, Tony was given only a 50/50 chance of survival. Defying all odds, he underwent emergency surgery and spent three weeks in intensive care before returning to the UK for prolonged treatment.
His rehabilitation journey included six months at the Salisbury Spinal Treatment Centre, supported steadfastly by his wife, family, and a community of fellow councillors — with over 500 visitors rallying around him during his recovery.
This month, Tony stepped back into council leadership, taking over from Paul Hodgkinson, who resigned after two and a half years to focus on roles at Gloucestershire County Council and as the prospective Liberal Democrat MP for North Cotswolds.
“It’s an honour to rejoin the cabinet,” said Cllr Dale. “I am eager to collaborate with partners and council officers to enhance the health and wellbeing of our residents, broaden cultural access, and implement the Cotswolds parking strategy approved last December.”
Outgoing cabinet member Paul Hodgkinson expressed gratitude for his tenure: “Serving the community has been rewarding, and I’m excited to concentrate on my other commitments at the county council and in politics.”
Council leader Mike Evemy welcomed Tony’s return, stating, “Tony brings valuable experience and resilience to our cabinet. I also want to thank Paul for his dedicated service and wish him success in his ongoing roles.”
This powerful story underscores not only Tony Dale’s personal resilience but also his steadfast dedication to serving the Cotswold community.