Councillor humbled by prime minister's letter

RELAXING at home . . . . Councillor John Hudson and his wife Kathleen

THE prime minister has written a personal letter of support to a councillor who secretly battled cancer.

John Hudson, who serves on the borough and Saddleworth parish council, says he is "humbled and honoured" by the letter from Theresa May.

Only close family and friends knew the full extent of his illness which he kept from voters during a hard-fought campaign to hold the Conservative seat for Saddleworth South on Oldham Council.

The 76-year-old father of two and former mayor of Oldham retained his seat by 11 votes from Liberal Democrat Alan Belmore in the May elections.

During the political fight, his battle for health saw him lose more than two stone and face stringent tests and treatment.

Now, after being given the all clear by doctors, Councillor Hudson, who lives in Greenfield with wife of 56 years Kathleen, is concentrating on his role help the community.

Courage

In the letter, which was personally signed and addressed by the prime minister, she says: "I was very sorry to hear of your recent cancer diagnosis, and I do hope that you are making a strong recovery following your treatment.

"It must have taken a lot of courage to confront this diagnosis whilst continuing your duties as a councillor and whilst fighting a tough election, which I am delighted to note that you won, ensuring that you are able to continue your many years of service to Oldham Council.

"I am incredibly grateful for your service to our country and our party, not only as a local councillor but also through your work with the North West Association of Conservative Clubs, and your many charitable endeavours.

"The strength of our party is built on the hard work, dedication and loyalty of people like you, and I want to thank you for all that you are doing.

"I do hope your recover progresses smoothly, and I am sure that the whole community on Oldham is wishing you well."

Councillor Hudson said: "I am humbled and honoured to receive the letter.

"She is such a busy person but to take the time out to sign this personally for me means so much.

"I love being a councillor and working for the good of Saddleworth and Oldham and this has given me extra motivation."

But he added: "I won't be seeking re-election next time. I've done my bit now and it's time to bring in some new faces."

Councillor Hudson has served on the parish council for 40 years, including spells as chairman.

During his mayoral year, Cllr Hudson and Kathleen raised £56,000 for good causes across the borough.