PM pays tribute to Pat Karney at Manchester funeral

Summarised from BBC Manchester's report · Updated 5 Nov, 12:55 · Archive

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has described long-serving Manchester councillor Pat Karney as a 'political genius' at his funeral at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church. Karney, who represented Harpurhey in north Manchester from 1979, died on 13 October aged 78. He was known for championing the city's major celebrations and played a significant role in its political life.

Burnham, who worked alongside the Labour politician for 25 years, told mourners: 'I loved Pat and I looked up to him and I will miss him as we all will.' He described Karney as the 'godfather of the most successful Labour group in the country' and recalled his sense of humour. When Burnham once raised concerns about the Christmas Markets starting earlier each year, Karney replied: 'Andy, I'll start them in July if I could.'

Before the service, Karney's hearse paused in Albert Square, where a Ferris wheel displayed the message 'Thank You Pat' beside the city's Christmas Markets. The funeral cortege passed Manchester Town Hall before continuing to the church on Mulberry Street.

Read the report

• PM pays tribute to 'political genius' Pat Karney at funeralBurnham recalls the politician's humour as Manchester mourns the man behind its celebrations.BBC Manchester · 5 Nov, 12:04

In this story: Andy Burnham · Pat Karney · Manchester · Harpurhey

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log