LAST week, in the light of a revamped pub in Wilmslow being named "The Man in the White Suit", in recognition of the one-term work of sleaze busting MP Martin Bell, I asked what similar tribute could be paid to our long-serving Leigh MP, Lawrence Cunliffe.

He has stood down after 22 years in the seat.

I'm afraid some suggestions weren't very flattering like "The Invisible Man Arms", "The Silence is Golden Lion" and "The Reluctant Leyther Hotel". Tut, tut.

However, Mrs B Battersby, of Atherton, applauds the animal welfare work of our ex-MP.

She says: "Mr Cunliffe did and does have animals at heart and will be sorely missed.

Not one of the candidates who has been standing has mentioned the welfare of animals."

Lawrence has indeed worked hard for the area over the years and has been a member of the All Party Rugby League Committee promoting the sport.

He also has a love of the turf.

All MPs must face some criticism during their career.

But I have always found Lawrence helpful in all dealings I have had with him over the two decades.

He has not been in the best of health recently and as his seat is handed over today, I wish him all the very best for the future.