Councillor opens up about cancer battle

COUNCILLOR John Hudson at home with his wife Kathleen

A DYNAMIC former mayor of Oldham has revealed his secret personal struggle against cancer while fighting an election battle.

Only close family and personal friends knew the full extent of Councillor John Hudson's 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 councillor retained his seat by 11 votes in the May elections after losing more than two stone in weight and facing an ongoing series of stringent health tests.

Fabled

But despite keeping the real depth of his ordeal under wraps, the colourful councillor still made time for one of his fabled one liners on election night.

"The fact I'm still here is the icing on the cake, though it was squeaky bum time. I just managed to get elected," he quipped.

But in an exclusive interview with the Chronicle at his Greenfield home, Councillor Hudson, sat with Kathleen, his wife of 56 years, and talked of his health problems which began in March.

The father of two, who has spent a lifetime organising popular major fundraising events, recalled: "I caught a virus and lost a stone and a half in just eight days.

"I didn't know what was wrong with me but I thought it was something more than just a virus.

"The doctors did a marvellous job in diagnosing the problem and the confirmed I would have to have my right kidney removed.

"I have nothing but praise for the doctors, nurses and the NHS," he said.

"I spent three days in North Manchester Hospital after the operation but I'm not one for popping pills and sitting on the sofa.

"I was determined to get out and about and I've only missed one council meeting so far," he declared proudly.

And on a local level, Councillor Hudson, who has served on Saddleworth Parish Council for 40 years, presented prizes at the recent annual Denshaw Flower Show.

"I told the organisers at the prize giving I didn't think I would be here - but now I might be here for the end of the DFS sale!"

And gazing fondly at his wife, he said: "She's been absolutely marvellous. I still feel tired but I get on with things every day."

In addition to his roles as councillor on the borough and parish, he is chairman of the North West Association of Conservative Clubs and sits on its London board.

Speaking of his narrow election win, he said: "When it comes to elections, we are all living in the borders. But people's loyalties come out.

"It's a nice way to end my political career with a vote of confidence, not a defeat.

"At the moment I think four more years will be enough. I tend to be a bit robust, speak up for people - and get into hot water."

His wife added: "The council has been John's life."

During his mayoral year, Councillor Hudson and Kathleen raised £56,000 for local charities.