Sir Cyril’s armchair – coming to a street near you!

Sir Cyril Smith MBE supports Paul Rowen

It’s no secret that Sir Cyril Smith MBE has come out of retirement for the forthcoming General Election.  Sir Cyril has not let the fact that he can’t get around as much as he used to stop him.

Sir Cyril, who is about to celebrate his 77th birthday said, “I am backing Paul Rowen to win – and whilst not exactly hitting the campaign running.  I am doing everything in my power to get Paul elected.  That is why I am taking my armchair on a tour of the streets of Rochdale.  I have had a great reception so far and have met friends that I have not seen for many years.  Although I have been in this game for some 60 years I still get excited during the General Election.  Paul Rowen helped me as a young Liberal in 1972 when he helped me get elected to parliament.  He was born and bred in Rochdale and has the same passion for the Town as I have and deserves a chance."

Many political commentators are predicting that the marginal seat of Rochdale will be one to watch.  The Lib Dems scooped nearly half the votes cast in last year's Rochdale local election.  They were given a boost recently when 2 Conservatives defected to the Lib Dems and have 27 Councillors - the biggest group on Rochdale Council.  With Council Leader Paul Rowen as the Lib Dem Candidate it's no surprise that Sir Cyril is so confident.

Cllr. Paul Rowen said, "Sir Cyril has worked unbelievably hard for us - despite being retired for the best part of 15 years he still has lost none of his appeal.  I know it is not easy for Sir Cyril to get about these days - it is humbling to see him and his brother Norman still heavily involved in campaigning."