A PLAQUE has been unveiled along Ashton Canal to commemorate a mother and grandmother who was killed in Droylsden last year.
Michelle Hodgkinson was attacked on Edge Lane on Friday, June 2, 2023 as she walked to visit her mother and died at the scene.
Her family wanted a special and permanent tribute to Michelle on the canal towpath – which has now become reality.
They were joined by Michelle’s friends and Deputy Prime Minister, local MP Angela Rayner, to unveil the brass plaque, which 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.’

The plaque is located close to lock 16 on the Ashton Canal, close to where Michelle lived and where she walked regularly.
“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,” said MP Rayner.
“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 & River Trust for their efforts to bring the family’s vision to life.”

MP Rayner, who represents both Ashton-under-Lyne and Droylsden in Parliament, was joined at the small ceremony by Michelle’s daughter Kasey, her sister, auntie and nanna.
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.
“I would like to thank the Canal & River Trust and Angela Rayner for supporting us to obtain this plaque in honour of my mother,” said Kasey.
“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.”
The ceremony was also attended by Jon Horsfall, North West director at the Canal & River Trust, and Andrea Barrett, the Trust’s partnerships and fundraising manager.
Staff at the waterways charity helped to organise the ceremony and install the memorial plaque.