Tributes to Barrie Hornby, who loses cancer battle aged 76

Barrie Hornby

Tributes have flooded in to a dedicated member of the community and “true gentleman”, Barrie Hornby, after he died yesterday (Wednesday 27 April) aged 76.

Barrie, the husband of Castleton Councillor Jean Hornby, served as Consort when his beloved wife was the Mayor of Rochdale in 2006/7, and was known to many as a man who was dedicated to the people.

Rochdale Town Hall is today (Thursday) flying the flag at half-mast to pay respects to Barrie, who lost his battle with lung cancer yesterday.

The Mayor and Mayoress, Surinder and Cecile Biant, paid a joint tribute: “We had known Barrie for many years and he was really a true support for Jean. He was the best person imaginable to have as her support.

"Barrie was widely known as a very good man who was dedicated to the local community.

"Our deepest condolences are with Jean at this time.”

Conservative leader, Councillor Ashley Dearnley said: “Barrie was a very affable gentleman whom I got on with very well.

"Jean was the Deputy Mayor while I was the Mayor back in 2005-2006 with Barry as the Consort, and we always worked very well together.

“Barrie was a true gentleman who was interested in people. He will be missed.”

Castleton councillor and friend Billy Sheerin described Barrie as a “gentle giant”. He added: “Barrie was so well known in the community, not just because he was into politics but also because he was very sporty when he was younger and was always around playing rugby.

“Barrie was so very supportive of Jean in her career and otherwise. He was her rock. My thoughts are with her now, it must be very difficult for her.”

He added: “Barrie was an absolute gent with a very dry sense of humour which was always appreciated by those around him. He will certainly be missed by all those who knew him.”

Councillor Aasim Rashid said: “I was with Jean when we got the sad news.

"I had very good relations with Barrie and it really struck me to hear about his death.

“He was a lovely man who did a lot for the Labour party, he was a dedicated member who always raised concerns about the local community and really cared for the people.

"I give my sincere condolences to Councillor Hornby.”

Liberal Democrat leader, Councillor Andy Kelly said: “My condolences go out to Jean and her family.

"A colleague told me of her husband’s illness last week and how strong Jean has been these past days.

"My thoughts are with her.”

Details of Barrie’s funeral will be announced next week.