Oldham military veteran Eddy named a ‘Shining Star’ in community heroes Christmas initiative

Major Eddy Hardaker

Oldham resident Major Eddy Hardaker has received an early Christmas present after being recognised as a community champion.

Major Hardaker, who has been in the army since 1979 and now works within the Reserve Forces network as Director of Human Resources, is one of just four ‘Shining Star’ winners from across the UK selected by organisers Resin Bound Surfaces and Purple Wellies.

His nomination revealed the depth and breadth of time he gives to the community.

A stalwart supporter of military veterans, he has raised thousands of pounds for a variety of charities, mainly to support those who are not in the best of health.

During the Covid-19 pandemic he was regularly shopping for veterans and other “at-risk” people in Oldham.

The grandfather of three has also worked with the Imperial War Museum and took part in a project called War Stories where veterans of all ages visited school children across the north west and shared their military experiences.

Together with his wife Viv, they help run the Oldham Armed Forces Veterans monthly breakfast which allows veterans to support each other and have a breakfast in a peaceful setting.

A key organiser of Remembrance Sunday activities, this year he organised the Oldham Festival of Remembrance dedicating many hours and late-night planning into this major civic event which was attended by more than 350 people. 

Major Hardaker is also a trustee of the charity Life for a Life Memorial Forests, which plants memorial trees across 50 sites in the UK.

The ‘Shining Star’ campaign to find the UK’s volunteers and groups that tirelessly give their time and energy for the benefit of others, was launched last month by Resin Bound Surfaces and sister company Purple Wellies.

As a ‘Shining Star’ winner Major Hardaker receives a sumptuous Marks and Spencer Chocolate and Champagne Hamper (worth £100).

Liam Richards, director of Resin Bound Surfaces and Purple Wellies, said: “We wanted to give something back to the shining stars in our communities this Christmas, and decided to spread some festive cheer by asking for nominations for those who go the extra mile to make our community a better place.

"We were overwhelmed by the response, and choosing the recipients was a tricky task as there were so many worthy winners.

"We'd like to thank everyone who took the time to make a nomination, and also a big thank you to all the nominees who continue to contribute to their communities in such a positive way."

The winners of the ‘Shining Stars’ initiative can be found by clicking here

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