Andy Burnham pays tribute to Cllr David Greenhalgh

MAYOR of Greater Manchester has paid tribute to Bolton Council leader David Greenhalgh describing him as a "much-loved local son and a fearless champion for his town".

Cllr Greenhalgh died at the age of just 53 yesterday.

The flag at Bolton Town Hall was lowered to half mast as a sign of respect, as his death was announced.

Bolton Council leader David Greenhalgh dies at 53

People of Bolton pay tribute to Cllr David Greenhalgh

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Metro Mayor Andy Burnham said: "We are all deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend Councillor David Greenhalgh.

"David was Bolton through and through - a much-loved local son and fearless champion for his town. "When fire devastated The Cube in Bolton Town Centre in 2019, David was immediately on site and led from the front. He has done the same throughout this most challenging of times, standing up for his beloved Bolton but also for the rest of Greater Manchester.

"As Greater Manchester’s Culture Lead, David has been a passionate advocate for our arts organisations, steering them carefully through the challenges of the pandemic."

Today's meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority is being postponed as a mark of respect.

"The whole of the Greater Manchester family sends our deepest sympathies to them at this difficult time," said Mr Burnham.

Cllr Greenhalgh's death has shocked and saddened Bolton, with tributes continuing to pour in for "extraordinary man" today.

Cllr Marie Brady, leader of Horwich and Blackrod First, said:"David was an extraordinary man.

"As the Leader of Bolton Council, David was a joy to work with, always courteous, kind and helpful. He was passionate about the Borough of Bolton and used that passion to great effect. Listening to David speaking in the council chamber was never dull, he was a skilful and charismatic speaker.

Outside the chamber, David had a wonderful sense of humour and an incredible talent for impersonations.

"The borough of Bolton and Bolton Council has lost one of the best political leaders of all time and many of us have lost a good friend.

"Rest in Peace David."

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