Council pays tribute to Hornets

Rochdale Council has paid tribute to Hornets Rugby League Club after its future was recently secured.

A notice of motion, which was passed unanimously by all parties at council, noted 'with delight' that Hornets will be continuing as a professional club after their recent financial trouble.

Councillor Peter Rush, who proposed the motion, said: “I’ve been involved in rugby league and the Hornets for the last 40 years in many capacities from player to board member and it gives me great pleasure to bring this motion to council tonight.

“I would like to thank my fellow councillors in the chamber for their support over these last few difficult months. I would also like to pay special tribute to Councillors Alan Taylor, Irene Davidson and Ashley Dearnley for their support. A special mention must also be made to the new President of Rochdale Hornets, Paul Ormerod, who has already made a great start in his bid to bring rugby league back to the heart of our community.”

Councillor David Clayton, who seconded the motion, said: “I would like to take the time to thank everyone involved in saving the Hornets, especially Councillor Rush who I know was involved heavily with the negotiations that secured the club’s future.”

Councillor Ashley Dearnley, Leader of the Conservative Group, said: “As Rochdalians we all should all be proud to support the Hornets and I am delighted that their future has been secured. I would like to pay personal tribute to Councillor Peter Rush for all his hard work with the Hornets. Everyone in this chamber knows that he is passionate about his Rugby League and has worked tirelessly over many years to help keep the club going. Let’s all look forward to the future now and hopefully move forward in a positive way."

Councillor Peter Williams, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group, gave Labour’s support to the motion.