Background
GUNNELL, John was born on October 1, 1933. Parents: the late William Henry Gunnell and Norah Gunnell.
GUNNELL, John was born on October 1, 1933. Parents: the late William Henry Gunnell and Norah Gunnell.
He gained a Bachelor of Science in General Studies in 1955, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in 1958 from the University of Leeds.
As a conscientious objector during National Service he was a hospital porter at Street Bartholomew"s Hospital, London. In the 1960s he was a chemistry teacher at the United Nations International School in New York City. From 1970 to 1988 he was a Lecturer in the School of Education at the University of Leeds.
From 1977 to 1986 he was a councillor on West Yorkshire County Council, being the leader 1981-1986.
He was also a councillor on Leeds City Council 1986-1992. Gunnell initially stood for Parliament at Leeds North East in February and October 1974, but was beaten by Sir Keith Joseph on both attempts.
That constituency was abolished at the 1997 election, and he was re-elected for the new Morley and Rothwell constituency. At the 2001 election he retired due to ill-health, and the seat was held for Labour by Colin Challen.
Member, General and Municipal Boilermakers Union. Member, Leeds Healthcare. Member, Leeds Development Corporation, 1988-1992.
Vice-Chairman, Yorkshire Enterprise. Chairman, Yorkshire and Humberside Development Associate, since 1981. Leeds/Bradford Airport joint committee, 1981-1983.
Member, Audit Commission, 1983-1990. Chairman, North of England Regional Consortium, 1984-1992.
Spouse Jean Louise Gunnell (née Lacey), 1955. Children: three son, one d.