Tributes have poured in for an ‘adored’ Ashton councillor known for riding his Harley Davidson and shredding the guitar in his band. Coun Anthony Sykes, who has been off council duties for a number of months on sick leave, died on Friday, September 30 at the age of 51.
He was well known amongst residents for getting hands on with local campaigns - even delivering groceries to people on his motorbike during the Covid lockdown. Elected back in 2018 as a Labour councillor, he’s had a hand in many campaigns in his local area.
Fellow councillor and friend Danny Fletcher, said: “My good friend and mentor, Anthony, was a true local activist, loved by all who met him and who adored our Ashton community.
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"Anthony had an incalculable source of strength and determination that he used to help those in most in need, stemming from a strong social conscience. All my love and thoughts are with Anthony’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Coun Jenny Bullen, an Ashton councillor as well as friend and neighbour of Coun Sykes, added: “Anthony was a good friend and colleague. He always had the best interests of Ashton residents at heart.
“During Covid he delivered medicines and groceries to residents on his Harley Davidson motorbike. Anthony was always first to volunteer on local projects like community litter picking, clearing Millingford Brook, working on Ashton Heath, supporting local sports clubs and the Hamlet at Three Sisters.
“At the Christmas Lights Switch-On, Anthony joined performers on stage with his guitar.”
Wigan Council have confirmed that they will fly the town hall flag at half mast as a mark of respect. They shared their condolences and expressed that he will be sadly missed by all those in the council chamber.
Councillor David Molyneux MBE, leader of Wigan Council, added: “It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of Councillor Anthony Sykes. First elected in 2018, Councillor Sykes' enthusiasm and dedication for his role as an elected member was clear for all to see.
“He was a valued and respected colleague who will be missed by everyone within the council chamber, and the thoughts of everyone at Wigan Council are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Town hall flags will fly at half-mast as a mark of respect.”
Yvonne Fovargue, MP for Makerfield, said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the sad news that Anthony has passed away. From first meeting Anthony, I knew that he would be a dedicated public servant and he was a popular and respected figure both in the local Labour Party and the wider Ashton area that he represented.
"I shall miss him very much and extend my condolences to his family and friends.”
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