Former Middleton MP Jim Callaghan has died

Former Middleton MP Jim Callaghan has died.

Mr Callaghan was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Middleton and Prestwich in 1974, and he served this constituency and its successor, Heywood and Middleton, until 1997. 

Liz McInnes, MP for Heywood and Middleton, said: “I am very sorry to hear that Jim Callaghan has died. He was a staunch champion for our local area, first serving Middleton and Prestwich from 1974 and then Heywood and Middleton from 1983 to 1997.

"Jim’s impact was such that in 2007 the Peninsula House NHS centre on Cross Street in Heywood was renamed Callaghan House in his honour.

"Jim had a very successful parliamentary career and he always put the needs and interests of others first. Among many other achievements, he was instrumental in the introduction of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Act which improved parking and overall access for disabled people in the workplace. I know he was quite rightly very proud of this achievement which significantly improved the everyday lives of millions of people.

"He was a very well-liked MP and he is still fondly remembered by residents and local Labour Party members.

"I would like to send my deepest condolences to his family and close friends at this sad time.”