Legendary Councillor Ashley Dearnley Retires After 44 Years

0:00On March 15th, Rochdale's longest serving counselor, Ashley Dernley, plans to step down in May after 44 years on the job. Elected back in 1982 at just 21 years old, the now 65-year-old conservative has become a fixture in local politics. From his days as a postmaster in the Dernley district, he spotted community needs up close and jumped into help. Memorable highlights include chatting with the late Queen Elizabeth II, serving as mayor, and helping save the clock tower at Birch Hill. Hospital, he led the local conservatives for much of his time, always prioritizing residents over party lines. Colleagues from labor, Lib Dems, and his own group have shared warm praise for his steady hand and cross-party teamwork. They credit him with key wins like securing the bus station and pushing through town center regeneration, including the modern No. 1 Riverside, building. Even in his final stretch, Dernley is battling plans for 500 homes on Green Belt land near Littleboro and advocating for a new relief road.

1:03To ease traffic. Retirement means more family time in travel, though he leaves the door open for a comeback. His four decades of putting Wardle and Littleboro first have built unanimous respect across the council, marking the end of a true local legend.