This week, I want to spend my column paying tribute to two great men of local significance that we have said a sad goodbye too in the last few days: Tony Husband, and Sir Bobby Charlton.

Tony was renowned cartoonist; an extraordinary talent whose work spoke volumes. Hailing from Hyde, as well as drawing for local papers, Tony created satirical illustrations for an impressive list of national publications including Private Eye, The Times, The Sunday Times and The Sun. His drawings were warm, engaging and funny, often with a pointed satirical edge. They have brought smiles to faces across thousands of households week in, week out. What a legacy to leave behind.

My family feel extremely blessed to have a lovely little cartoon he published on our daughter’s birth on our wall. Born in 2010 after David Cameron became Prime Minister, the cartoon shows baby Bess bouncing on my knee, with me declaring “Claire, she’s said her first words!” and the baby urging “Cameron out, Daddy in”. I know that a great many families across Tameside and beyond have their own Tony Husband specials in pride of place. We will all treasure them even more dearly now.

I’m sending very best wishes to Tony’s son Paul and their whole family, who I know have been blown away by the widespread reaction to his loss. Paul shared how Tony passed away on Westminster Bridge en route to a Private Eye boat party. I will always think of Tony and his huge contribution as I pass the spot myself en route to the House of Commons. His parting cartoon was a self-portrait featuring him waving to the departed boat from Westminster Pier, sent to a friend from the train when he feared he would be late. The image of him waving goodbye feels particularly poignant. Thank you, Tony, for leaving us an encyclopaedia of lovely and witty images.

This week also saw the sad loss of Sir Bobby Charlton. Sir Bobby was a Manchester United legend, an England legend, and a footballing legend. His contribution to England’s historic 1966 world cup win will never be forgotten. As another working class bloke who was born in the North East but made his name and life in Manchester, I’ve always felt a fond affinity for Sir Bobby.

The tribute to him on Match of the Day was extremely moving, and it’s been special to see crowds of fans from across Greater Manchester and beyond head to Old Trafford to pay respects and sign the book of condolences. They think it’s all over… it is now. Goodnight to a true one off.