When former NDP leader Jack Layton died, many communities across the country went on to hold vigils, marches and memorial services. A year later, they're doing it all over again — including party supporters in Greater Sudbury.

In Sudbury, NDP riding party vice president Richard Eberhardt said they're raising a glass at a local pub.

"We're going to have the kind of event that Jack would like to be at,” he said.

Eberhardt said Layton struck a chord with Sudburians, especially during the almost year-long strike at Vale between 2009 and 2010, adding Layton regularly visited the picket line to boost morale and encourage the striking workers.

'People were touched by his genuine, positive approach ...'—Sudbury MP Glenn Thibeault

“Everyone always reminds me of how easy it was to approach and talk with Jack Layton,” said Sudbury MP Glenn Thibeault in a press release.

“We wanted this event celebrating him to be accessible. Sudbury was special to Jack. He visited often and he met and spoke with hundreds of Sudburians in his time as leader. I know those people were touched by his genuine, positive approach to building a better Canada.”

The Sudbury NDP will host a memorial Wednesday night at a local pub in honour of Jack Layton. (Len Bolton/CBC)

When news of the 61-year-old leader’s death broke a year ago, Eberhardt was driving in his car, listening to the radio. He said the tone of the radio announcer's voice quickly changed as he announced that Layton — credited with the NDP's successful climb to become Canada's official opposition — had died from his battle with cancer, shortly before 5 a.m. in his Toronto home.

Eberhardt said he felt a wave of grief wash over him.

"[It] really floored me, right off the bat,” he said. “It was a shock."

The gathering will take place at the Laughing Buddha, Wednesday evening, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.