Greg's rangers roar

VOLUNTARY Award winner Greg Cookson (left) with presenter Cllr. John Hudson

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GREG Cookson swapped the Saddleworth hills for the Oldham stage when he won the Voluntary award during Friday's Pride in Oldham awards.

The founder of youth group Dovestone Youth Rangers was thrilled to receive the special accolade for establishing the group and his dedication to the project, which allows 11 to 19 year olds carry out a variety of tasks including litter picking, gardening and environmental projects.

Speaking after collecting his glittering glass trophy, an overwhelmed Greg emphasised that he was receiving the award on behalf of the group - especially the young people who had worked so hard.

He said: "I feel so humbled and really moved to have won the award.

Fantastic

"It means so much to myself and our fantastic team of volunteers.

"They are an amazing group of people who come out in the rain or snow and work so hard.

"It's a real team effort, not just me."

Finalist Sajjad Malik, who was nominated for helping a wide range of people in need, said: "Just to be here is amazing, and its great to see so many people doing such great work.

"It's not just me getting recognised, it's a big group of people which is fantastic."

Fellow finalist Hilary Lomas, who has spent years making the Limeside Estate a better place to live, agreed and said: "The night has been absolutely brilliant.

"I've run a play group for 30 years and another voluntary group for 15 and I feel very proud of what we've done."

Councillor John Hudson, who presented the award, said: "Thy are all winners, this has been one of the hardest years to choose as they are all so good."