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Sir Cyril Smith MBE

September 3, 2010 12:00 AM
Sir Cyril Smith MBE

Sir Cyril Smith MBE

Cheadle MP Mark Hunter has today paid tribute to Sir Cyril Smith MBE, former Liberal MP for Rochdale whose sad death was announced this morning.

Mr Hunter was a long time friend of 'Big Cyril' and remains grateful for his support and encouragement when he was a young councillor almost thirty years ago.

In a personal statement, Mark said:

"I am deeply saddened by this news. Cyril was a real, larger than life character, always plain speaking and always ready to go into battle for the people he represented.

"He was always full of advice and good humour and was truly a legend in his own lifetime. A true son of the North West, and someone who was proud to call our region his home.

"He was also a mentor to many of us, and I remember with great affection campaigning with him many times. The reaction of the public in his presence had to be seen to be believed, he was treated almost like royalty and everybody wanted to shake hands with him.

"He was the kind of individual who helped give politics a good name and I know he will be very sadly missed by his many admirers. His contribution to public life was immense and politics will be the poorer for his passing. This is a sad day for all of us who knew him and my thoughts and condolences go out to his family."

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