Tributes paid to 'obsessive' Owls fan Hattersley

Tributes have been paid to Sheffield-born former MP and deputy leader of the Labour Party, Roy Hattersley, who has died at the age of 93.

A Sheffield Wednesday fan, Lord Hattersley was a regular fixture in the directors' box at Hillsborough and followed Yorkshire County Cricket Club closely.

Hattersley was born in Sheffield in December 1932 and studied at the City Grammar School, which is now Outwood Academy City.

His parents were both members of Sheffield City Council. His mother Enid became Lord Mayor of Sheffield in 1981 and his father was chairman of the council's health committee.

Lord Hattersley entered Parliament in 1964 as the MP for Birmingham Sparkbrook, a seat he held for more than three decades.

Lord David Blunkett, who previously served on Sheffield City Council and was MP for Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough, described him as an "old sparring partner and then friend".

He said: "Really pleased we were able to visit in May and talk about the Owls and crazy politics. Much more to be said about a great political life and a very successful writer."

During his time in Parliament, Lord Hattersley served as deputy leader of the Labour Party under Neil Kinnock in the 1980s.

Lord Kinnock described how he was "obsessive and encyclopedic" about Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Sheffield Wednesday.

"Results of either would dictate his early morning mood - usually lasting into the afternoon. He was therefore euphoric or deeply depressed at regular intervals.

"It never got in the way of work - another indication of his strength of character, despite unhelpful comments from Blades supporters who were a bit less than magnanimous," he said.

Former City School principal Andrew Downing said he remained a friend to the school long after leaving.

"Over the years I was principal there I often met him to talk about education, politics and one of his other passions, Sheffield Wednesday.

"He was always interested in making a difference and ensuring equity; often championing those more vulnerable in the education system. He remained a committed friend to the academy and will be sadly missed," he said.

In a statement Sheffield Wednesday described him as a "lifelong supporter of the Owls".

"Our thoughts and condolences are with Roy's wife Maggie and his family and friends at this difficult time," they said.

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