Sir Cyril rounds on Labour!

5.31.36pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 29th Apr 2007

Campaigning in Spotland - Sir Cyril style!

Former Rochdale MP Sir Cyril Smith has rounded on the Labour Party for "misleading the people of the Borough" in their election propaganda. Speaking after a hard day's campaigning - Sir Cyril claimed that this was one of 'the dirtiest campaigns" he had seen in over 60 years of politics.

Sir Cyril was furious after seeing a number of Labour Leaflets including one at his home in Spotland. Cyril said, "I am used to strong debates and never criticise people for having an opposite or different point of view. I am concerned at the Labour Party deliberately misleading you or distorting issues, for electoral benefit. They have been inactive for the best part of the year whilst the Liberal Democrats continue their all round work - keeping people informed of major issues that matter to them. These American-sytle, negative attacks are a sign of desperation - don't be fooled!"

Cyril spent time canvassing in Spotland and Falinge - knocking on doors himself for the first time in many years. He also visited St Clement's Parish Church, Golden Mosque and Central Mosque in a busy day's campaigning alongside Lib Dem Candidates - Greg Couzens, Javed Iqbal, Andrew Abbott and Joanne Payne.

Cyril said, "There's something about elections that gets me going again. I'm 79 soon but my brother Norman keeps me going and if anything is worse. This year I have made a considerable effort to talk to as many residents as possible to answer Labour's unwarranted attacks. For instance, the Labour Charge that "Lib Dems voted for free parking for themselves" is an absolute disgrace! The only free parking Councillors of ALL Parties have is on the Town Hall Square when attending meetings at the Town Hall. Everywhere else they pay parking charges like you. Just a year ago Labour were in power (Coalition with The Tories) and for years before that. Never once did they move to scrap charges for disabled parking. I feel their propaganda is misleading and I am glad to set the record straight."

Cyril and his armchair will continue his tour of Rochdale over the next 6 days.