More than a dozen Oldhamers have been recognised for their outstanding work in the community with awards from the Mayor of Oldham.
At a ceremony in the council chambers on Saturday, July 27, Cllr Zahid Chauhan OBE awarded each of these 14 remarkable people with a Mayor’s Appreciation Award.
The awards were given to individuals who showed exceptional dedication and service to the community to help make Oldham a better place.
The recipients, who received their awards in front of family, friends, and community leaders, were:
Jonathan and Stephanie Griffiths Barnes – For their leadership with the Ambitions organisation, a volunteer-run charity that provides social and skill-building activities for young adults with learning and physical disabilities, helping them integrate with the community.
Gemma Carter and her husband Gary Carter – For their important work with GGC Media and the Saddleworth Independent newspaper, supporting the Mayor’s appeal and local issues.
Arif Choudhry – For his promotion of charity activities through his media outlet, supporting various local causes.
Lilian Day – For her tireless efforts organising annual concerts for Children in Need and raising funds for McMillan Nurses and Dr. Kershaw's Hospice.
Najma Khalid MBE – For her work with the Women’s Chai Project. The group empowers women, by providing care, help, and inspiration to enhance their wellbeing and support their roles as mothers and community members.
Zahid Malik – For his extensive charity work benefiting community groups in Oldham.
John Marshall – For his community engagement, including his contributions to Oldham’s International Choir.
Sarah Tate – For her remarkable charity walks and fundraising achievements. Throughout the past year, she's raised £21,200 for various charities.
Marcus Emms and Michaela Emms – For Marcus’ role as the town crier and their numerous Santa appearances, spreading joy throughout the community.
Mick Bowskill – For organising mental health walks during the pandemic, raising funds for Maggie’s Oldham, and supporting veterans. Mick is also a dedicated carer for his wife and an active fundraiser for various causes.
Ginny Alexander – Former Mayor of Oldham (2019-2021), for her continued community involvement and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Major Eddy Hardaker – For his dedicated support of the Royal British Legion and other groups, especially his work with children in Royton.
Mr and Mrs Emms, Mr Bowskill, Ms Alexander and Major Hardaker were unable to attend the ceremony and will be presented with their awards at a separate event.
Cllr Chauhan said: “It is an honour for me to present these awards to such committed and deserving individuals.
“They go above and beyond the call of duty and their hard work is helping to improve our borough and the lives of residents.
“I extend our heartfelt thanks, not only from myself and Oldham Council but from the entire community.”
Oldham Council said it encourages everyone to continue supporting local charities and join efforts to uplift our community.
Anyone who would like to explore volunteering opportunities in your area visit the Action Together website.
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