Joan served on the borough council, representing the Moorclose ward for a total of 31 years between 1975 and 2007. She was the Mayor of Allerdale in 1991-1992.

In recognition of this contribution she was awarded the title of Honorary Alderwoman of the Borough presented at an extraordinary meeting of the council on 19 September, 2012.

She also served on Workington Town Council from 1982 to 1987 and was Mayor of Workington in 1983-84.​

Our condolences go out to her family and friends.

Marion Fitzgerald, leader of the council, said: "Everyone at Allerdale Borough Council was saddened to learn about the death of former councillor, mayor and alderwoman Joan Minto. I did not know Joan personally but her many years of service to the town and district are well-known to many people. It is rare in this day and age to find someone so dedicated to supporting their community and we thank Joan for her many years of service and offer sincere condolences to her family and friends."

Hilary Harrington, Mayor of Allerdale, said: "She was a real community councillor and did a lot of hard work across the area. She was very pleasant and caring, a lovely lady. Her heart was in Workington and her own ward and she will be a big miss to the community."