Two Oldham community champions, described as “amazing people , have received Mayor Ginny Alexander’s appreciation award.
Rose Knipe is the Community Champion at Tesco in Failsworth, and is described as a thoughtful and generous lady who is always donating to her community.
The Mayor’s citation says: “Rose donated raffle prizes and food to my Afternoon Tea and she also helps to raise funds for various charities throughout the borough.
“Her kindness is felt community-wide and is very much appreciated.”
Rachelle Henthorn of Henthorn’s Catering runs a weekly scheme where people donate catered meals for those in need and deserving of a bit of cheer.
Oyez, Oyez. kindly bearded town crier Marcus Emms is renowned for announcing joyous events across the community.
But he was caught off guard when Oldham’s Mayor, Councillor Ginny Alexander presented him with a distinguished Mayors Appreciation award on his 50th birthday.
Marcus, who has been Town Crier for Shaw and Crompton for three years, said: The award came as a complete surprise to both me and my wife, Michaela, particularly as it was delivered in time for my birthday and mentioned both my role as Town Crier but Santa-ing role which I have done since 2003.
In her letter to Marcus Mayor Alexander said: Your hard work does not go unoticed. And I would like to thank you for your continued efforts to cheer the people of Oldham up, not only is town crier but I know you have also played your part as Santa Claus recently.
The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Ginny Alexander
The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Ginny Alexander, made special reference to townsfolk who have faced tragedy in her Christmas message.
“This year has been a very traumatic time for many of us here in Oldham, and my heart goes out to all those who have lost loved ones,” she said.
‘I would like to mention our elderly people, who are in care homes that have been isolated, and who are unable to have visits from their loved ones since March. This is truly heartbreaking.
“I would also like to give a thought to our children who have struggled with their education, as they have not been able to be with to their extended families and friends.
The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Ginny Alexander
The Mayor of Oldham’s final donation of the year - £300 - has gone to a fab organisation PHAB a self-funding not-for-profit community charity group run by volunteers.
Formed in 2000, the organisation was opened and run by the present chair Jack Edwards who started the group because of his daughter Donna has a severe disability and there was nowhere for her to go.
The group’s motto is: “Making More Of A Life Together” and enables young adults with physical and learning disabilities and difficulties and able bodied to enjoy social interaction in a safe community environment.
Oldham Cats has been rescuing cats and kittens in the town since 1996
Oldham s pet-loving Mayor has made a £500 donation to the town’s unsung cat rescue centre to help with vets fees for sick animals.
And councillor Ginny Alexander pleaded with owners to have cats neutered or spayed to help stop them wandering, fighting and unwanted kittens being abandoned.
Oldham Cats has been rescuing cats in the town since 1996 before moving to Middleton in 1998.
They now have an admissions unit where cats have to have a seven-day holding period.
No cat or kittens are allowed to proceed to any rehome unit until they have been fully monitored.