Oldham Mayor shows his appreciation

The Mayor of Oldham has honoured a number of individuals who have all made a big difference to our community and its residents.

At a ceremony in the council chambers, Councillor Zahid Chauhan OBE awarded each of the 14 people with a Mayor’s Appreciation Award.

The awards are given to those who have shown exceptional dedication and service to the community - helping to make Oldham a better place.

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.”

This year’s 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.

Arif Choudhry (pictured below) – 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 his wife Michaela Emms – For Marcus’s 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.

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.

Oldham Council encourages everyone to continue supporting local charities and join efforts to uplift our community.

If you would like to explore volunteering opportunities in your area, please visit: www.actiontogether.org.uk/oldham

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