THE sudden passing of Cllr John Byrne has shocked and stunned everyone who has been in any way involved in Bury politics.

Cllr Byrne, the deputy mayor, former leader of the Council, and former mayor, was a formidable political opponent and an eloquent and vociferous debater within the Bury Council chamber on behalf of Bury's Labour Group.

Outside of the council chamber he was a kind man who supported those less fortunate than himself and always had a smile and a handshake even for those who may not have always been supportive of his politics.

His death leaves a huge gap in all of our lives, he will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him, he leaves behind a good name. We wish his wife and family many years free of trouble and offer our hope that his memory will be a blessing Peter Redstone Chairman Bury UKIP