Scores of people have been paying their tributes to much-loved former Southport MP, councillor and amareur dramatics enthusiast Baron Ronnie Fearn after he died aged 90.
Baron Fearn served as Liberal and then Liberal Democrat MP for Southport between 1987 and 1992, and then again between 1997 and 2002. He also served as a local councillor in Southport for over 50 years.
He was a talented performer too, taking to the stage for many productions with All Souls Dramatic Club in Southport.
In 1955, Ronnie Fearn married Joyce Edna Dugan; they had a son, Martin, and a daughter, Susan.
Lots of people locally have been paying their tributes.
Speaking on Stand Up For Southport, Russ Hawkins said: “Sorry to hear this. In many ways he was Mr Southport.”
Clare Coleman said: “This is so sad… I will be forever grateful to Baron Fearn as he awarded me a grant to help fund my full time training in classical ballet.
“If it wasn’t for him I really don’t think I would have been able to pursue my career as a professional ballet dancer.
“I will never forget what he did for me my thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
“Thank you again Ronnie, from the bottom of my heart.”
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Adam Urbanowski said: “So sad to hear of Lord Ronnie’s death he was such a nice guy, the ultimate Ambassador for Southport and a proper gentleman our thoughts are with his lovely wife Joyce and the family RIP Lord Fearn OBE.”
Mary Wren said: “What a very sad day for Southport. He and Joyce made us so welcome when we came here and he was such a great help getting No 6 Weld Road established. RIP Ronnie and condolences to Joyce.”
Angela Danby said: “So sad to read this. Ronnie and I got on very well and shared the same sense of humour. A really nice guy. Sending love to Joyce, and Maureen too.”
David Harrison said: “Second comments from me today about someone who I have known so well from when I was manager of the Moulin Rouge .RIP Ron. You put Southport down in your diary as the top town to represent and stuck to supporting it. Well Done see you soon.”
John Siddle said: “A lovely man and a brilliant ambassador for the town. May he rest in peace.”
Andy Hodge said: “I met him a few times during my sports career in the late 80s and 90s, R.I.P Ronnie.”
Mike Sammon said: “It really is heart-warming to read all the comments. A Southport legend and local community warrior for sure. Thoughts with those who were closest to him right now.”
Former Southport Visiter photographer Gareth Jones Tweeted: “Sad to read that Ronnie Fearn has passed away at the age of 90. From the day I started as a photographer for the Southport Visiter in 1993 he was always supportive and wanted what was best for the town and the people.”
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