Councillors pay tribute after former provost dies

Dr John Hulbert when he was Perth and Kinross Provost <i>(Image: Perth and Kinross Council)</i>
Dr John Hulbert when he was Perth and Kinross Provost (Image: Perth and Kinross Council)
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Tributes have been made to popular former Perth and Kinross councillor and provost John Hulbert who has passed away.

Dr Hulbert was elected to Perth and Kinross Council in 1995 and served as provost from 2007 to 2012.

Brought up in St Andrews, he worked in medical research before practising as a GP for over 30 years.

Councillors have paid tribute to Dr Hulbert and his years of service representing the Carse of Gowrie ward as an SNP councillor.

Provost Xander McDade said: “I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Dr John Hulbert. As well as a lengthy career in in medicine, firstly in research and then as a GP supporting the health of the community, he served as a councillor for the Carse of Gowrie for many years, and as Provost of Perth and Kinross from 2007 to 2012.


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“John was perhaps best known for his role in co-ordinating Perth’s 800th  anniversary celebrations, and for leading the successful campaign to restore Perth’s city status which culminated in a visit by Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh in the summer of 2012.

“He was active in many organisations and also took great interest in promoting and supporting Perth’s twinning relationships around the world, which led to his receiving the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland in 2013 from the country’s president for developing good relations between the Fair City and Poland. He also wrote a number of books, including the first illustrated guide book for Perth.

 “My thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Conservative councillor Caroline Shiers is extremely grateful for the kindness and support he gave her when she was first elected to council as a mum with a young family.

Cllr Shiers said: “I am sad to hear of the death of Dr John Hulbert.

“When I was first elected, my daughter was a toddler and then I had my son a year and a half into being a councillor – a daunting position – but John went out of his way to check in on me, to ask how everything was and was always so suportive. Small acts of kindness which went a long way and will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with his wife Sara and all his family and friends.”

Independent councillor Andy Chan is “deeply saddened” and grateful for the “steadfast” support John gave to the local Chinese community.

Cllr Chan described Dr Hulbert as “a true champion of community, friendship and international partnership”.

He added: “John was a great friend and a steadfast supporter of the Chinese community in Perth and Kinross. He believed strongly in building bridges between cultures and was passionate about the role civic relationships can play in strengthening understanding, opportunity and trade.

“I was honoured to join John as part of the official twinning delegation to Haikou, China in 2011, working to strengthen the relationship between Perth and Haikou. It was a memorable visit, one that reflected John’s warmth, diplomacy and genuine interest in people. I have many fond memories from that trip, and John’s leadership and encouragement were central to its success.

“As provost, John served Perth and Kinross with distinction. He was widely respected for his integrity, kindness and commitment to public service, always representing our area with dignity and pride. He gave generously of his time, supported countless community organisations, and was someone who made others feel welcome and valued.

“John will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

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