A special night in the history of Rochdale Football Club

Reporter: Jan Harwood
Date online: 03/10/2008

Rochdale Council honoured the achievements of Rochdale AFC last night (Thursday 2 October) by presenting the club with the Freedom of the Borough, the highest accolade that the Council bestow on a person or organisation, in front of an audience more than 200.

It was awarded to the club during a glittering ceremony at the town hall and was watched by Rochdale's MP Paul Rowen, Councillors and football club officials, including manager Keith Hill and his assistant David Flitcroft, alongside a handful of players.

Graham Morris, Director of Rochdale Football Club, was presented with an inscribed scroll inside a solid silver casket by the Mayor, Councillor Robin Parker, showing the council’s recognition of their achievements.

Mr Morris spoke in depth about the honour and thanked the club's supporters for helping the club to achieve its current status within the town. He said that the casket and scroll would take pride of place among the memorabilia at the club, jokingly making sure that he said memorabilia, rather than trophies.

Tributes were made by the three leaders of Rochdale's political parties as they in turn passed the motion to honour the club.

Councillor Irene Davidson spoke on behalf of the Leader of Rochdale Council, Councillor Alan Taylor who wanted to put on record his thanks to the players and management at Rochdale Football Club.

Councillor Davidson said on his behalf: “I have lived here for over forty years and I know how important Rochdale Football Club is, and how dedicated their supporters are. I hope this is seen as a big thank you to the club and the supporters.”

Councillor Davidson said that even though her football knowledge was limited, she knew the importance of the role the club plays within the community. She said: "This Council is proud to be associated with the football club and this honour recognises its achievements both on and off the pitch."

Councillor Ashley Dearnley, Leader of the Conservative Group, said that it is a wonderful achievement to celebrate over 100 years as a football club: “They have always done their very best for the town and have brought a great deal of pleasure to thousands of people over the last century…and we all look forward to their future success.”

Councillor Colin Lambert, Leader of the Labour group said: “Sport is an important part of our community. Many local sports teams across the borough involve thousands of youngsters - and those not so young every week. The clubs involvement with schools and community groups shows their commitment to being more than just a professional football club and I feel this recognition is well deserved.”