It is extremely saddening not to mention incredible that I find myself reporting the death of former Councillor, Warren Flood yesterday.
Ex-Councillor Warren Flood, served on Bury Council in two stints - firstly representing the residents of Pilkington Park and latterly Moorside.
He was staunch socialist and I respected that he had strong beliefs even though it meant we often differed on issues. With the rise of new Labour I remember joking to him that he was now in the wrong party. Irrespective of party I think we shared a mutual respect for each others position.
Warren Flood was only 41 years young, hard working and talented arguably most of his life before him. I can’t help but contrast the sudden death and life of Warren with that of Gordon Sharkey who also passed away recently. Gordon had lived a full life, a life to celebrate, whereas we can only mourn the loss of a life relatively unfulfilled.
These recent deaths, coming as they do in the local election campaigns certainly put things into perspective.
My deepest condolences go to his wife and family, comrades and colleagues.

I was saddened today to learn that after fighting a long illness former Unsworth Councillor, Gordon Sharkey passed away at the weekend.
Gordon was one of those councillors that has seemed to have been on the Council forever. He was there when I was first elected in 1991 and although politics and other differences made it difficult to become friends I nevertheless had the greatest respect for Gordon as a dedicated committed local politician with strong beliefs.
I know that when age and infirmity caught up with Gordon he was heartbroken to have to finally accept that he was unable to continue in his role as a councillor.

Many things are written about politics and politicians national and local and standards in politics. On that score Gordon Sharkey was top draw material and gave everything to his community, his council and his party. I am sure his family and friends are proud of his achievements and will mourn long and hard his passing.
My condolences to all his family and friends.