Sick council leader makes comeback for St Patrick's Day

On the mend: Sick council leader makes comeback for St Patrick's Day

Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, Alan Taylor, is out of his sick bed and proving to be back on form, as he took part in a St Patrick’s Day celebration at the Town Hall this morning (Monday 16 March).

The council leader, who has been in and out of hospital with continuous heart problems, had to hand over his duties to acting leader Councillor Irene Davidson while he recovered.

But Councillor Taylor appeared happy and smiling this morning as he joined with Rochdale Mayor Robin Parker, and Spotland and Falinge Councillors Peter Clegg and Greg Couzens, in raising the Irish flag for St Patrick’s Day.

He said: “I was delighted to attend the raising of the Irish flag in celebration of St Patrick’s Day. Rochdale has a large, proud Irish community and it is great to get together once a year to celebrate that fact.

“Events such as these show just what is best about Rochdale - its diversity and community spirit.

“We have many communities here in Rochdale that also celebrate their national day and I am looking forward to attending as many of those celebrations as I can over the next year.

Councillor Taylor added: “I must congratulate Paddy Maguire, a parishioner at St Patrick’s, on organising yet another successful event.

“His work and effort over the last few years in making sure that this tradition is kept going is truly remarkable. I was pleased to see a good crowd turning out with their Irish scarves and hats to celebrate a wonderful day.

“I know that local residents with Irish roots will be proud to see the flag flying in front of our Town Hall.”