Lib Dem activist caught impersonating councillor

Castleton resident and Liberal Democrat activist John Heyworth has been caught impersonating a councillor - sending a letter to be published in a newspaper in Castleton Lib Dem Councillor Peter Davison’s name without Councillor Davison’s knowledge or permission.

The letter appeared in the Rochdale Observer and was critical of Heywood & Middleton MP Jim Dobbin; Mr Dobbin’s office described the letter as an “attack”.

Councillor Davison said he was in “shock” about the letter: “The first I knew about this letter was on Saturday morning when I was reading the paper, I thought who has written that and then I saw my name at the end of it.

“I had no prior knowledge of the letter and I didn’t give my permission for it to be written.

“That sort of thing isn’t my style at all; Jim (Dobbin) is a good man and I have no need to write that kind of letter.”

“I like to keep the peace”, added the disgruntled Councillor.

Councillor Davison contacted Councillors Ted and Pat Flynn about the letter.

Councillor Pat Flynn said it was “annoying” to read the letter and know that Councillor Davison “wouldn’t write anything like that”.

“I would consider myself a friend of Jims and I know Peter would never dream of writing anything like that.”

“We have told Jim Dobbin we weren’t behind the letter and we have apologised,” added Councillor Flynn.

Councillor Colin Lambert from MP Jim Dobbin’s office, said: “We were not surprised to be told by Lib Dem Councillors that the letter wasn’t written by Peter Davison or that he didn’t have knowledge of it.

“We were even less surprised to find it had come from the gutter – John Heyworth.”

John Heyworth said: “I know it was wrong and I have apologised. I thought the sentiments in the letter would be those of Peter.

“It was a mistake and I should have got permission.

“I have spoken to Peter about this misunderstanding and I believe he has accepted my apology.”

The police have not received a complaint; however, it is understood they would review the letter to see if the content was criminal if a complaint was made.