Last Friday saw the memorial celebration of Councillor Neil Trafford in Manchester Town Hall.

The memorial celebration was recorded and is now available on YouTube at www.youtube.co.uk/russelleagling. Part I is below:

This was a major gathering of the Liberal Democrat campaigning family in tribute of one of our most influential and gifted campaigners. Neil, who was tragically killed at the age of 33 in a car crash just two weeks ago, was one of the architects of the win in Manchester Withington (2005) and a leading by-election stalwart. Neil was a close friend to many and had a wide range of interests including history and music and this was reflected by his friends, colleagues, family and partner Peter Paul Wiegmans.

Neil started his political career in Swindon before going to Taunton, Cornwall before settling in Manchester and the North West.

One of the most regular trainers for the party at Peterborough, Wyboston, most party Conferences as well as providing direct advice to seats, local parties and candidates.

Neil’s three causes for which a collection was taken were Tear Fund, Marie Louise Gardens, and the Lodewijk Foundation.

If you wish to make a donation to those pleas either contact them direct or send a cheque payable to Dr J Crotty, to Dr Jo Crotty, 1st Floor, 6 Rylands Street, Warrington, WA1 1EN.

Our thoughts are with Neil’s family and partner at this incredibly difficult time.