Nominee Hilary left flabbergasted

Pride in Oldham nominee Hilary Lomas, chairman of Limeside Tenants' and Residents' Association.

A VOLUNTEER regarded as a pillar of the community has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Hilary Lomas (75), who has lived on the Limeside Estate for more than 70 years, is an active member of the community who organises events, applications for project funding and ensures opportunities for children in the area.

She recently received a national Tenant of the Year award in July this year for her community efforts and also chairs the Limeside tenants and residents association.

Her son Karl put the Chronicle in touch with one of Hilary's close friends, Stella Bowden.

She said: "She is a pillar of the community.

"I can remember years ago she used to child mind and she wanted to go on holiday but the mother couldn't afford it so she took the family with her.

"She is the chair of the tenants and residents association and she is also the key holder, she walks up and opens and closes the place up and it's all volunteer work."

Stella added: "Anyone who has problems, they go to her, she's just one of those people that you can go to.

"She has such a big heart. She doesn't even think she deserves it."

Hilary was amazed by the nomination as she views her work as something of the norm that keeps her busy and brings people within the community closer together.

Hilary said: "I can't believe it because it is just something I do and it just gives me something to do.

"I do it because it is getting people together and doing things for the children.

"We do family trips and some of the children can't afford to get away for a bit but the trips make that possible.

"I have lived on the estate for 74 years now and I know a lot of people and there is a lot of new people but you get to know them, they'll often ring me up to book children's parties or things like that."

She said: "I do get a bit embarrassed with things like this because I am a quiet person really.

"Again I am flabbergasted, I can't believe that people keep doing this. I'm just an ordinary person, it is just something to do."