THE borough is this week mourning the death of its Mayor.

First citizen Bill Smith lost his tough battle against cancer at his Tyldesley home on Sunday morning.

It is a wretched time, not only for his wife and fellow councillor, Evelyne, but for his colleagues and many friends, who have this week paid tributes to a wonderful man.

It is tragic that Bill should have been struck down in his Mayoral year - 12 months in which he should have had the time of his life, fulfilling hundreds of important engagements throughout the area.

But since his illness rendered him incapable, Evelyne - his rock - has taken the mantle on her own shoulders, carrying out many jobs solo.

Just two days before her husband died she was willing to accompany deputy leader, Cllr Tom Sherratt, to a ceremony in Culcheth organised by The Journal.

Thanks Evelyne, and to Bill, too, who in my dealings with him, I found a really down to earth and helpful man.

His death is a sad loss to the whole community.

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