Very sad news that former Normanton MP Sir Bill O’Brien has died.

He was a true local hero and a great friend to so many across the Five Towns who know the incredible work he did for the community – from his early days as a local councillor in Knottingley to serving as an MP for Normanton.

Bill was tireless in championing the coal industry through the NUM, standing up for local government and always putting our area first. Even after retiring, when most would have slowed down, but Bill kept giving back helping local people and businesses across Pontefract.

Bill was a real champion for the people here, and his knighthood in 2010 was a well-deserved recognition of all he did. We have lost someone a very special champion for this area. Sending love to Jean and all Bill’s family and all who knew him.