Memorial tree planted for former President of Inner Wheel Sue Cannell

A cherry tree has been planted behind Littleborough Railway Station as a tribute to the late Sue Cannell, a resident of Littleborough and former President of Rochdale Inner Wheel.

Sue sadly died in September 2021 aged 76, five months after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
 

Read more: Obituary: Susan Jane CannellPublished: 28 September 2021

Sue had been a member of women’s group Inner Wheel – which is closely linked to the Rotary humanitarian effort – for many years and President several times.

She was known as the gardener by her many friends for her horticultural knowledge and expertise.

A fundraising quiz night at Littleborough Cricket Club helped to purchase the tree.

 

 

Over 20 Inner Wheel members and friends heard President Anita Sharma give a very moving speech saying: “There are some who bring a light so great among their friends that even after they have gone, the light remains.

“A beautiful soul never goes unnoticed. Remembering her beautiful smile and the many kind things she did for Inner wheel.

“The grief is still as strong as the memory is still as fresh, but one thing remains true – I will remember your smile.

“Trees are the earth’s endless effort to speak to the listening heaven. We plant this today in your memory as a symbol that life goes on and you will always be remembered. This is a symbol of life, hope and love.

“As President of Inner Wheel, and on behalf of my members, we will miss you, but your memories and smile will last forever.”

During the very hot weather, Sue's husband John and a team of friends regularly watered the tree and it’s now growing well.

Inner Wheel is a women's group, part of a global organisation, which exists to promote friendship and to fundraise for local, national and international charities.