DURING the last few days we have seen passing away of couple of remarkable individuals.

Firstly the sad killing of Joe Cox, Labour MP for Batley and Spen, who in a short time seems to have made an astonishing impact as an elected MP. It may be, prior to her sudden death most of the nation had never heard of her or her inspirational work relating to refugees, poverty, women’s issues, supporting local community and much more. Her sheer determination to make this a better and a more equal world is only now coming to be known to the rest of us. Her death also shows the impact of hatred and misguided perceptions will have upon her young family and our community unity.

Yesterday, many of us attended the funeral service of a real local hero, Harold Daniels who sadly died in a recent car accident. I had a privilege to work with him at Age Concern almost 13 years ago. Everyone was a friend to Harold. He had boundless energy and was always willing to help the people who needed support or guidance. He was good with adults as well as young people. He was a fantastic “Father Christmas” not just at festive times but all the time. He had immense thirst for knowledge and a real caring community person.

The tributes to him were so well deserved – particularly from the refugee members who sang emotionally in their native language with tears and genuine sadness for the affection and respect for Harold. That showed the power of love and care he had for many people who knew him.

At this time of European Referendum for us with so much unnecessary unpleasantness set by politicians, it is time to reflect upon the good servants of humanity who strive to make this a better world for us.

What Joe and Harold had in common was their passion for life which encompassed serving others with love, kindness, compassion, tolerance, understanding suffering of others and above all respect for all mankind. They may have departed from this earth but they will always be remembered for their care for humanity.

In my time at Bolton Interfaith Council, it has been a real privilege to come across many people locally who tirelessly work for improving lives of others – like Joe and Harold. God Bless them both and many others who serve our community selflessly.

Chan Parmar

Bolton Interfaith Council