Oldest Labour MP leaves behind a legacy

Oldest Labour MP leaves behind a legacy

Jan, 4 2021


It takes a special person to dedicate their life to a political identity 
in the hope that their input will channel it forward in a positive direction. 
 
Ron Atkins was such a man. He represented Preston North in Lancashire as a Labour politician twice from the years 1966- 1970 and 1974-1979.
 
One of his most memorable achievements was establishing a polytechnic to Preston (which is now UCLAN) and for saving the Preston-Ormskirk railway line. 
 
When he reached his  milestone 103rd birthday former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn tweeted his congratulations to a "passionate" socialist and "the oldest person ever to have been an MP".
 
Sadly Ron passed away last month at the grand age of 104. He leaves behind his dear wife Elizabeth who remarked on his strength of character within his political career, 
 
“Ron devoted his life to the Labour Party and was driven by making the world better. He was staunch Labour all his life and highly respected. He was a real guiding force; the Labour group in Preston called him 'the guru'.”
 
Preston City Council were saddened to hear of the news of a life that was spent to public services both locally and in parliament. They have since sent their heartfelt condolences to his wife and family. 
 
Today the mayor of Preston will make a formal statement in tribute to Ron Atkins' long life and work on behalf of the city.
 
^Alex Ashworth CCG UK Blogger