Tributes after Derek Twigg’s family tragedy
TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of Derek Twigg’s wife and MP’s office secretary Mary Twigg.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, her husband Mr Twigg, General Election candidate for the Labour Party in Halton, said Mary had passed away peacefully on Monday night.
The Weekly News understands that Mr Twigg, who had been working from his constituency office in recent months to look after her, had remained with her.
Mrs Twigg had been seriously ill but the couple were keen for their privacy to be protected, issuing a short statement in June to say he had been caring for a relative who was suffering with a serious illness.
Speculation had mounted over his situation after a lull in parliamentary activity.
The former veterans minister is due to contest the General Election on behalf of the Labour Party on December 12.
His election agent Cllr Andrea Wall said his office was closed on Tuesday and election activity is on hold until today, Thursday, November 28.
Tributes and condolences poured in on Mr Twigg’s Facebook page following the announcement.
One comment said: “I am so sorry to hear this Derek, such a lovely and gentle lady. Sending my love to you and your family x.”
Another said: “Derek, I am so sorry to hear this, the only time I met Mary was whilst you were enjoying a family day at the Trafford Centre, I was amazed at what a lovely, welcoming and warm lady she was.
“I hope your memories and messages from people help you through this sad time.
“Wishing you and your family all the very best x.”
Another said: “So very sorry to hear this terrible news. Mary was such a lovely lady. Deepest sympathies to you and your family at
● this awful time. RIP Mary x.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mr Twigg said: “With great sadness, I announce that my wife Mary passed away peacefully at home last night.
“I now need to take some time to be with my family at this very difficult time.
“Halton Labour will continue to run my General Election campaign and should you wish to raise any issues or have questions please don’t hesitate to contact my agent, Andrea Wall, by calling 07544 688530 or emailing contact@ derektwigg.org
“Finally, on behalf of my family, thank you for the many kind messages of support that we have received over the past few months during Mary’s illness, they have been very much appreciated.”