MP and former lecturer honoured at Salford graduation ceremony

Brian Iddon, who was born in Bolton, was a Labour MP from 1997 until he stood down at the 2010 general election. He is remembered as a campaigner for the legalisation of cannabis and for help for people addicted to illegal as well as prescription and over-the-counter medicines

 as well as serving on several committees during his time in Parliament.

Before his Parliamentary career Brian worked for many years at the University of Salford. In 1966, he was appointed as an organic chemistry lecturer at the University before becoming a senior lecturer in 1978. In 1986, he became a reader and left the university upon his election to the House of Commons.

Brian, who received the honour during the SEE School graduation ceremony today at the Lowry, Salford Quays, was nominated for the award by Karen Kelly from the Estates team.

Karen said: “Brian was good friends with my dad who shared his political ideals and supported him in his ward and constituency work. My parents had a pub in Brian’s Ward when he was a councillor and Brian made it one of the hubs of his community work. He also sometimes used it as his election day headquarters. It was part of an older, social housing estate and most of the people living there needed some sort of help or assistance. Brian worked tirelessly for them. He understood, as well, that it wasn’t just money that was needed.

“One thing that Brian did, which is very close to my family’s heart, is the support he gave to my parents in their fundraising efforts for children with learning disabilities. He would make appearances, present raffle prizes, appear on pictures. He was a great boost to their efforts.

“In Brian’s day, he worked tirelessly to introduce himself to his constituents, ask them what they thought and what they needed. He even offered them a lift to the polling Station.”

Dr Iddon is retired from full-time employment and is now engaged in community work and not-for-profit writing of books.