Memorial to Michelle unveiled on the canal towpath where she died

A memorial plaque has been unveiled to commemorate and celebrate the life of Michelle Hodgkinson, who died after being attacked in Tameside last year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Ashton MP Angela Rayner joined Michelle’s family and friends to unveil the special tribute to the 51-year-old mum, and grandmother, on the canal towpath as requested by her family.

Michelle Hodgkinson was stabbed to death on Edge Lane in Droylsden on Friday, June 2, 2023, as she walked to visit her mother, and died at the scene.

Paul Hughes, 29, was charged with her murder following a “lengthy investigation”.

The brass plaque simply reads: “In loving memory of Michelle Hodgkinson (8/3/72 – 2/6/23). Taken too soon, forever loved and always missed. Our Shelly B”. It is situated near to lock 16 on the Ashton Canal, close to where Michelle lived and where she regularly walked.

Ms Rayner said: “Michelle’s family have shown immense dignity and courage over the past 15 months as they try to process the heartbreaking loss of their beloved mum, nanna, sister and friend.

“I am delighted that there is now a permanent tribute to Michelle where her loved ones can come to remember her.

“Thank you to the Canal and River Trust for their efforts to bring the family’s vision to life.”

She was joined at the unveiling by Michelle’s daughter Kasey, her sister, auntie and nanna at the small ceremony.

Michelle’s family, who affectionately called her ‘Shelly B’, said she loved helping people in her local community, and was known for volunteering and carrying out charity work.

Kasey added: “I would like to thank the Canal and River Trust and Angela Rayner for supporting us to obtain this plaque in honour of my mother. She loved walking down the canal, especially on hot days and by having this plaque we have a place to remember her and trying to turn a negative place into a positive one, in her memory. Forever loved and always remembered, our Shelly B.”

Other attendees included Jon Horsfall, North West director at waterways charity Canal and River Trust, and Andrea Barrett, the Trust’s partnerships and fundraising manager. Colleagues at the charity helped organise the ceremony and install the memorial plaque.