Sir Cyril ready for 80th celebrations

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 20th Jun 2008

Sir Cyril ready for 80th celebrations

One of Rochdale's most famous sons, Sir Cyril Smith, will celebrate his 80th birthday next Saturday (28 June) at a Gala Concert at the Town Hall to raise money for charity.

The money raised from the celebration will go to Sir Cyril's favourite charity, 'Rochdale Childer', and the event is now sold out.

Sir Cyril said: "I wasn't going to organise a party but was talked into it by Paul (Rowen). I am looking forward to meeting friends old and new at our beautiful Town Hall, where I have spent many of my happiest times."

Rochdale's award winning Youth Orchestra will be performing on the night, as well as Rochdale's adopted comedian Jimmy Cricket, who said: "Everywhere I go in the country although they know that I am Irish I get asked where I live now. When I reply Rochdale their eyes always light up and say "Sir Cyril Smith"! He is synonymous with the town, like bread and jam, because he has done so much for us."

Derek Wiggett, who is organising the event, said: "I would like to thank the hundreds of people who have got in touch with donations, to buy tickets or with messages of support.

"The response has been phenomenal and it just goes to show the high esteem that Sir Cyril is held in. We've had messages of support from across the world and we're looking forward to a successful night, full of surprises."

Although the Concert has sold out, Sir Cyril is still hoping for more donations to Rochdale Childer. To make a donation contact Derek Wiggett:

Email: derek.wiggett@rochdalelibdems.org.uk

Telephone: 01706 712186

Visit: 144 Drake Street

Tributes are being paid to Sir Cyril on the Rochdale Online message board. Leave your message and the best ones will be read out at Sir Cyril's birthday concert.