Group's efforts are lift for OL1

The OL1-Oldham team who have been nominated for a Pride award

VOLUNTEERS have been praised for their service to Oldham.

The OL1-Oldham workforce, made up of eight residents, were nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Working alongside First Choice Homes, the team focuses on improving five streets in St Mary's Ward, which make up the OL1 post code area.

In response to the nomination the group said they exist to do whatever possible to help the community.

Chairman Andy Gregori said: "We are in the community helping the community and we are not in it for any awards but I feel so grateful to be nominated.

"It is brilliant.

"We were started up through a First Choice Homes initiative through BGreen and our name comes from the one thing we have in common, which is OL1, where we live.

"We are here to do whatever we can for local people."

The OL1 team of eight residents formed about 12 months ago to improve the safety and community atmosphere in five streets.

Their efforts focus on the area surrounding Barker Street Tenants Hall, including Eden Street and St Mary's Way.

Secretary of OL1 Stephen Rogerson (24), the youngest member of the team, said: "We organised a community help and advice team where people came in if they had problems with their properties.

"They raised their concerns and we passed them onto First Choice Homes.

"The team wanted to make the area a better place by making it safer, more relaxing and more enjoyable."

Mr Rogerson, who nominated the team, added: "I nominated OL1-Oldham for the award because they have done a brilliant job around the area.

"They have redeveloped a Wallshaw Street plot of land which will be turned into a community garden.

"Since starting one year ago they have got partners on board including Well Pharmacy, Oldham Council, First Choice Homes Oldham and others."