Tribute to Norman

TRIBUTES were paid and a minute’s silence held at last night’s Oldham Council meeting for popular former Labour councillor Norman Bennett, who died on Sunday at the age of 80.

Mr Bennett served on Oldham Council for more than 30 years. He was also chairman of governors at Roundthorn School and worked for the British Legion.

Oldham’s Labour leader, Councillor Jim McMahon, described his quick wit and sharp tongue but said he was a hard-working and dedicated man. He added: “Norman was a genuine man and a great Oldhamer.”

Deputy Mayor, Councillor David Jones, said Mr Bennett was a stickler for detail and under his stewardship, the poppy appeal had raised more money in Oldham than the rest of Greater Manchester put together.

Councillor Dave Hibbert said: "He was a gentleman and a friend and will be sadly missed."