Tributes paid to former mayor and Rochdale Hornets legend after sudden death
22.02.2024 - 14:39
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Tributes have poured in for the man known as ‘Mr Heywood.' Coun Peter Rush, died yesterday (February 21) following years of service to the people of Rochdale.
At the meeting of the full council in the town hall last night, Coun Rush received warm compliments and thanks for his many years of hard work within the borough. The chamber observed a minute's silence for the former Rochdale Hornets legend, who played for the rugby club before later becoming its director, as a mark of respect.
Leading the tributes to the former mayor, the council leader Coun Neil Emmott said: “I found out on Sunday he was not well.
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“I was privileged to speak to his son at the weekend and his now widow. His son said they were all very sad but he’s had a long and very colourful life.
“He was a man of compassion, a caring man who cared about his family, constituents and colleagues. Tony got kudos from all political angles as a man of principle and someone who would do his best for this town."
Coun John Taylor, leader of the Conservatives added: “Another public servant who served this council well. I got to know Peter as soon as I came onto Council as we both sat on the planning panel and quickly realised he knew my uncle who had played for Hornets.
“A man of the people and in many ways Mr Heywood a man who seemed more interested in politics and more interested in the community.
“We will all miss Peter. On behalf of all of our group, I can say Peter will be sadly missed and our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time.”
Although Coun Rush was part of the Labour group, he was previously a Liberal Democrat, which Coun Andy Kelly, leader of the Lib Dems, admitted