Councillor, 57, quits after early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A ‘tenacious and dedicated’ councillor has resigned after being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s in his 50s. Craig Rotheram was elected to Bolton Council in May 2023 and represented the Horwich North ward for the Horwich and Blackrod First party.

The 57-year-old said he decided to step down because the condition has progressed faster than expected. Coun Rotheram, who was a founding member of Horwich and Blackrod First Independents, said: “The condition has begun to impact my memory. “In light of my memory lapses, it is only right to step down and ensure the community is served by someone who can fully commit to the responsibilities of the role.” Coun Rotheram’s resignation came after he attended the final full council meeting before the May elections on Wednesday evening.

It will mean a by-election will be held to fill the vacancy on May 2, the same day of other scheduled local elections. Coun David Grant, the leader of Horwich and Blackrod First, said Coun Rotheram had made ‘a significant contribution to the Horwich community’. Join the Manchester Politics WhatsApp group here He added: “Without Craig’s tenacity and dedication, many of our collective achievements would not have been possible.

He was instrumental in securing the link road on the Loco Works, introducing new festive lights for Horwich and spearheading beloved community events like the duck race, Christmas treasure hunt, and the Festival of Horwich. “Perhaps Coun Rotheram’s most lasting legacy is the foundation of the Horwich & Blackrod First Independents Party.