'Poignant' tributes paid to councillor

COUNCILLOR TONY LARKIN

TRIBUTES were paid to popular councillor Tony Larkin who was set to take on the role of deputy mayor this year.

Councillor Larkin, who represented Royton North for 18 years, died in March following a relapse with bowel cancer.

A minute's silence was also observed as the council paid respects to former councillor Peter Jepson who also died in March, aged 66.

Council leader Jean Stretton said it was "poignant" that members paid tribute to Councillor Larkin on the day of the mayor-making ceremony yesterday.

The 63-year-old grandfather had agreed to be deputy mayor and would have then become mayor during his first year of retirement.

His son, Councillor James Larkin, who also represents Royton North, was urged by Councillor John Hudson to take up this role in the future and to continue his father's work.

Councillor Larkin said: "From his difficult childhood in Ancoats, Tony developed a real sense of duty to others, firstly to his devotion to his siblings after the death of his mother at 15. However, he found time for everyone and everything.

"It was his selflessness and willingness to help others that will be the reason he is remembered.

"He was respected across the chamber. He worked hard and was the best advocate imaginable for the people of Royton."

Councillor Tony Larkin was first elected in 1996. He served four years before being losing his seat, but returned in 2003, serving until recently.

Councillor Rod Blyth hailed him as an "excellent teacher and politician" while Councillor Abdul Jabbar shared stories of their joint interest in Manchester United.

Fellow ward councillor Hannah Roberts said he "refused to let his cancer define him", while Councillor Steven Bashforth described him as a "man of honour" who knew how to balance the demands of his Catholic faith, work, family and politics.

Councillor Stretton said: "He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered."

Roses handmade by a family member were worn by all the councillors in the chamber in his memory. Books of condolence are at the Civic Centre's Rochdale Road reception and at Royton Town Hall.