Tribute to Cllr Neil Trafford

12.35.00pm GMT Tue 25th Nov 2008

Like so many others I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear on Monday of Neil's tragic death. Neil's family, close friends, colleagues (particularly in Manchester, the rest of the north-west and the Campaigns Department)and many other friends have my deepest sympathy and that of all party officers and MPs who knew Neil. Like others, I have spoken to Neil's family and told them of the love, affection and great respect and gratitude which Neil had earned from so many in the party. I have also shared with Hilary S the special solidarity which I want her and the campaigns department colleagues to know.

From Neil's time in the Youth and Student office I have watched with pleasure as Neil, supported and cared for by so many, has grown and matured and become such a valued colleague. Those of us with a Christian or other religious faith join our prayers for Neil, and for the real comfort of all those he leaves behind. What Neil gave us and meant to us can never be erased, all the good he did can never be undone and all the love and friendship he gave can never be taken away. We will miss him terribly, but so many have so much to be thankful to Neil for. We just have to try to look after and appreciate each other more as one of our responses to this great loss.

Simon Hughes ( as Federal Party President, but also simply as me. )

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