The people Rochdale Borough are today mourning the loss of local councillor, Ann Metcalfe. Ann was a born in 1945 lived in Norden all her life where she was a local councillor for a decade. She was a friend to many local people, a much loved public figure and during her time in public service worked tirelessly to serve the community.
Mayor of Rochdale, fellow ward councillor and close friend, Jim Gartside said today: “Sad, oh it’s very sad and very sad for her partner Alan too because they did a lot together. She was a great support to me and really fantastic to have as a councillor in the same ward. It has been a delight to work with her. Everybody liked and respected Ann.”
Ashley Dearnley, Leader of Conservative Group said today: “Obviously it’s very sad. Ann was an excellent member of Rochdale Council and always put the interests of Rochdale first. Indeed at the last council meeting she attended she spoke of the need to work together to improve our borough. She will be sadly missed by us all and our deepest sympathies go to her family.”
Colin Lambert, Leader of the Council said: “Ann was one of those councillors who knew why she was on the council and represented her constituents well. I have known Ann since we were both in teaching, we didn’t always agree, but we had mutual respect for each others views. She will be sadly missed on the council and in her own family of course.”
Andy Kelly, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group said: “I was very saddened to hear of this tragic loss and it’s seems to have happened very quickly, very sudden. Ann was a very hard working councillor for the people of Norden. I spoke to Ashley Dearnley this morning to pass on my condolences to her family and colleagues.”
Simon Danczuk MP said: “I am saddened to hear of the death of Ann Metcalfe. She had been a councillor in Norden for almost a decade and was very popular. Ann was a true congenial spirit and always conducted herself with great dignity. You could never fall out with Ann and she had a real civilising influence on local politics. She’ll be sorely missed and my thoughts go out to her family.”