Former mayor dies

TRIBUTES . . . Jack Armitage

FORMER Mayor of Oldham Jack Armitage has died at the age of 92.

The Honorary Alderman was Oldham’s first citizen in 1975-76. He served as a councillor from 1954 until 1995 and was awarded the title Honorary Alderman in 1996, in recognition of his lengthy council service.

His daughter Carole Robertson said: “He was a wonderful dad to all his five daughters. All his life he was in local politics. He wanted to help the people of Oldham to have a good and better life by providing good houses and facilities.”

Mr Armitage, who lived in Coppice, left the Labour Party in 1967 following a disagreement over the chairmanships of committees. He returned a year later as the party whip.

Current Mayor, Councillor Ateeque Ur-Rehman, said: “The council is saddened by the death of Mr Armitage. Our deepest sympathies are expressed to his family and friends.

“He served the people of Oldham for more than 40 years and he was also a well-respected magistrate.”

Mr Armitage, who worked for an insurance firm and was a keen rabbit breeder, joined the Labour party in 1947 and represented St Mary’s ward from 1954. The former Methodist lay preacher and magistrate was Labour’s deputy council leader for 10 years and chairman of the finance committee.

A book of condolence will be placed in the Civic Centre reception and an online version will also be available at www.oldham.gov.uk

The borough flag at the Civic Centre will fly at half-mast on the day of the funeral, a date for which is still to be set.

He leaves five daughters, Sheila, Moya, Carole, Jacqueline and Lisa.