Thirsk - A True Socialist Heroine

Joan Maynard MP

Joan Maynard MP

Vera Joan Maynard known as Joan Maynard 5th July 1921 - 27 March 1998.

Dubbed "Stalin's Granny" due to her left-wing views, Maynard was a leading activist in the National Union of Agricultural Workers becoming vice-president of the union and being narrowly beaten to its presidency.

Regular contributor to Country Standard

She joined the Labour Party in 1946 and served as a councillor on North Yorkshire County Council and on the Labour Party NEC 1972-82, 1983-87.

Having acted as Labour agent in Thirsk, North Yorkshire Maynard was elected in 1974 as MP for Sheffield Brightside and held the seat until 1987. Throughout her political career Maynard advocated policies on the left of the Labour Party and chaired the left-wing Socialist Campaign Group.

She served with distinction on the Agriculture Select Committee. Maynard died in Sowerby, North Yorkshire on 27th March 1998

Vera Joan Maynard known as Joan Maynard 5th July 1921 - 27 March 1998.

Dubbed "Stalin's Granny" due to her left-wing views, Maynard was a leading activist in the National Union of Agricultural Workers becoming vice-president of the union and being narrowly beaten to its presidency.

Regular contributor to Country Standard

She joined the Labour