Freedom of the Borough to be bestowed on Dale & Hornets

Council Leader Alan Taylor

Two of our town's leading sport's clubs will be officially recognised by the Council in two weeks time - when the Council bestows the Freedom of the Borough on Rochdale AFC and Rochdale Hornets Rugby League Teams in recognition of their quot;outstanding contribution" to our town.

Council Leader Alan Taylor said: quot;The football and rugby clubs are one of our most recognisable exports.  With these clubs , Rochdale will always be nationally recognised.  It is not just for that reason, it is for the huge amount of community work that both clubs do - especially for the younger people of our borough.  It is especially poignant in the football club's centenary year.

"This Council should be about supporting organisations that do good things for this borough and recognising their achievements.  Especially in these two cirumstances they have both been great ambassadors for us over such a long period of time.  Sport plays a huge role in the lives of our town and we are happy to officially recognise that.  Whenever I am discussing Rochdale nationally they invariably mention the football and rugby teams and Sir Cyril Smith, so we are delighted to be passing this resolution."

The motions will be moved at the next Council Meeting on 25 April and it is expected that they will get all party support.