Tributes have poured in for a well known Labour councillor who represented a south Sefton ward for 28 years.
Gordon Friel, who represented Linacre ward, died yesterday, (Monday, July 11) aged 69. Mr Friel, who lived in Maghull, left behind a wife and two children.
Mr Friel was first elected to Sefton Council in May 1994 and held many roles with the authority over the years. Over more recent years he spoke out on pollution issues and on transport.
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Bootle MP Peter Dowd, a former leader of Sefton Council, said: "I was really saddened to hear of the death of Gordon Friel my friend and colleague who I have known for over 25 years. Gordon was kind, decent and dedicated and that was in all walks of life both private and public.
"We kept in regular contact and it was always a real pleasure to talk to him about this and that and sometimes about politics. I have sent my condolences to Karen, his wife, his children and grand children who he adored. I will miss him very much.”
Cllr John Fairclough, deputy leader of Sefton Council, said: "A respected councillor Gordon was first elected in May 1994 and has faithfully represented Linacre ward for the last 28 years.
"Gordon was a former union convener (rep) at the Jacobs factory in Aintree and has faithfully represented Linacre ward for the last 28 years. Gordon represented the interest of Sefton residents on boards and in many other roles during his time as an elected member.
"For the last ten years he was a member of Merseytravel's combined authority transport committee. More recently he was deputy portfolio holder for the Liverpool City region combined authority transport committee.
"He will be sadly missed by both colleagues officers and those who knew him. Are thoughts are with his family at this time.
"I will remember Gordon as always smiling."
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram posted a message on social media which read: "Really sorry to hear Gordon's passing. He was a committed member of the region's Transport Committee for a number of years and was incredibly passionate about making a difference to people's lives.
"My condolences go to his family and friends."
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