Book of condolence set up for Sir Cyril

Sir Cyril Smith

The Leader of Rochdale Liberal Democrats Irene Davidson has today (Monday 6 September) opened a book of condolence for Sir Cyril Smith, who sadly passed away on Friday.

The book has been placed in the main reception of the Town Hall and residents are being invited to come along and leave their messages of condolence.

A painting of Sir Cyril has also been loaned to the Town Hall from the Rochdale Liberal Democrat Headquarters on Drake Street, whilst the book is available to sign.

Members of the public will be able to go along and sign the book from today until the day of his funeral, on Monday 13 September.

Flags outside the Town Hall will also be flown at half mast.

Councillor Irene Davidson said: “Over the weekend I’d literally had dozens of phone calls from people across the country asking me what the best way would be to pay their respects for Sir Cyril. In response, I decided it would be fitting to open a book of condolence at the Town Hall so that the people of Rochdale can come along, sign it, and feel part of the celebration of his life and the sadness of his passing.

She added: “Sir Cyril was a great man who put Rochdale on the map. I know he is going to be sadly missed by thousands of Rochdalians and many more across the country. They don’t make politicians like Sir Cyril anymore. He is unique and there won’t be anyone like him again. He was a true Rochdalian to the core.”