'Mr Rotherham' dies at 87

Mr Crowther, who was best known as the outspoken chairman of Rotherham Civic Society, died on Sunday.

He served as Rotherham MP from 1976 until his retirement in 1992 but remained heavily involved in the life of the town and was a fierce defender of its heritage.

Born Joseph Stanley Crowther on May 30, 1925, he went on to pen folk songs about miners and steelworkers which were used in history lessons at Rotherham schools.

He was also involved at the Rotherham Hospice for 15 years and was the director of the central holdings club from 1991 until its closure.

Mr Crowther’s contribution to Rotherham was recognised in 2009 when he was awarded the Freedom of the Borough.

He said at the time that he was "delighted, honoured and privileged" to have been chosen.

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