Norman Smith MBE funeral

Norman Smith MBE funeral cortege at Rochdale Town Hall

Mayor of Rochdale Ray Dutton joined current and former politicians, including Rochdale MP Paul Rowen, as Rochdale remembered former Mayor Norman Smith MBE.

Mr Smith's funeral cortège stopped at Rochdale Town Hall.

There was then a service at Rochdale Unitarian Church before a private committal at Rochdale Crematorium.

Former MP Paul Rowen paid tribute at the service alongside Mr Smith's son, Craig Smith.

Paul Rowen said: "Norman would have been delighted with the turn out. It just goes to show the high esteem he was held in by people here in Rochdale. We received tributes from politicians across the country. Most important to Norman though will be the numerous messages we have received from local people - especially in his old patch of Spotland. He made a difference, especially for older people, and his legacy will continue to benefit our town for decades to come. On behalf of the Smith Family, I'd like to thank everybody involved in a touching tribute to a great man."