Service celebrates the life of MP

Michael Meacher MP

A CELEBRATION of the life of Michael Meacher, Honorary Freeman of the Borough and MP for Oldham West and Royton, is to be held next week.

The service will be taking place at Oldham Parish Church, Rock Street, on Tuesday, December 1, starting at 2pm.

Mr Meacher, a Labour MP and former minister, died after a short illness on October 21.

The 75-year-old had been MP for the constituency since 1970 and retained his seat with a 14,738 majority at the General Election in May.

News of his death produced a flood of tributes from across the political stage and those who knew him at national and local levels.

Mr Meacher’s funeral was held on November 13 in Wimbledon.

Thie service will give the people of Oldham the opportunity to celebrate his life and remember his contribution to the borough.

It will be conducted by the Rev Derek Palmer and the order of service includes music and hymns, a choir performance and tributes from personal and political friends.

The public are invited to attend and there will also be another chance to join those who have already paid tribute by adding to a Book of Condolence.

Members of the family will be in attendance as will other dignitaries.

In 2013, Mr Meacher was awarded the title of Honorary Freeman of the Borough in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the local community.

He was married to Lucianne, and has four children and nine grandchildren.

Mr Meacher’s family has requested that any donations should be gifted to Amnesty International and/or Medicins Sans Frontieres.

Details on how to donate can be found at www.amnesty.org.uk/give-in-memory-loved-one-funeral or www.msf.org.uk/give-memory.