Sir Cyril Smith - 80th Birthday Party

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Sun 29th Jun 2008

Sir Cyril Smith - 80th Birthday Party

A packed Rochdale Town Hall was the scene for the 80th birthday party of Rochdale's political legend and larger than life character, Sir Cyril Smith. It was the biggest celebration held at Rochdale Town Hall and rightly so. The event could have sold out many times over but put simply the night was a huge celebration of the ongoing life and inspiration that is Sir Cyril Smith.

Comedian Jimmy Cricket, led the entertainment alongside the Rochdale Youth Orchestra, the Debrose Choir, the multi-award-winning Rochdale Brass Band, with celebrity life coaches Nick and Eva Speakman attending.

Guests watched a specially commissioned documentary featuring tributes from Jim Bowen, Tracey Dawson, House of Commons Speaker Mick Martin, Nick Clegg, Paddy Ashdown and others.

The night started under a huge banner entitled "Nice one Cyril" and a special birthday gift of the Delorean car used in the hit film "Back to the Future" - courtesy of Nick and Eva Speakman.

The Rochdale Youth Orchestra entertained in the lobby of the Town Hall followed by entertainment from Rochdale's finest talent in the main hall.

Paul Rowen MP said: "This was probably the best night I've had since being elected in 2005. Guests included Sir David Alton, Chris Davies MEP and the whole Lib Dem Council Group paid tribute to a great man.

"It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to organise on behalf of our team and I would to thank all the people behind the scenes for making it happen including Greg Couzens, Sir Peter Ogden and Ann Bradley.

"A special thanks must go to Rochdale Online for sponsoring the sound system. John and David Butterworth did an excellent job and we are grateful for their professional excellence."

Sir Cyril said: "It was a night full of surprises. I have to admit that I had never heard of the film 'Back to the Future' but Dave from the office assures me that it is now more famous than 'Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang'.

"The night was brilliant and I am greatful to Derek Wigget who organised everything with his team. I've never craved attention and I only work to ensure that Rochdale benefits from anything I do.

"Thank you to for all the wishes and I will continue to work hard in my remaining years for the town I love"

During his speech on the night, Sir Cyril paid tribute to Rochdale's MP, Paul Rowen. He said: "Paul is doing an excellent job and I am pleased for Rochdale that we have someone so committed as their MP.

"Thank you to Derek Wigget, who organised the night - he has worked so hard and I will be eternally greatful.

"My thanks also go to Dave Hennigan, who I speak to every day. He is a first rate political organiser who has made a real difference for our town.

"In life, whoever you are, if you have beliefs then follow them. That is all I have ever done and I am truly gratified at all this recognition.

"To be honest with you I wasn't planning anything. Paul Rowen talked me into it and I am pleased that we have raised well over £3,000 for Rochdale Childer at the same time.

"Nice one Rochdale!"