Alan Sykes

Alan Sykes died last week after a few days in hospital. He had his 90th birthday in January.

The Liberal Democrats and before that the SDP owe Alan a huge debt. He worked for very many years in pursuit of the principles of Liberal Democracy, never afraid to challenge anything that he felt was not in line with them.

Alan was a doctor of chemistry, he had been a councillor in Cleveland and he held several roles within the Liberal Democrats. Over the years, he was an indefatigable and scrupulous chair, secretary and treasurer. His contribution was immense.

He was made an MBE in 1989 for political and public service.

Alan married Kay Kirkham in November last year and they were partners for many years before that. Twenty years ago when Kay took up her post in the LibDems' office at BMDC, she and Alan immediately became vital members of our executive.

We are grateful for all his work, advice, humour and friendship over many years. Our thoughts are very much with Kay at this time.