Derek down but not out

Mayor Cllr Derek Heffernan

OLDHAM Mayor Councillor Derek Heffernan has suffered a broken collar bone and other injuries after falling on a street but wants to thank a mystery taxi driver who helped him get home.

The 77-year-old fell near the junction of Huddersfield Road and Heywood Avenue in Austerlands on Saturday night.

In addition to injuring his collar bone, he received cuts and bruising to his face, head, arm and legs.

He now has an arm in a sling and some crutches to help his walking,

Despite the injuries, he met Prince Andrew and young business people on Monday at the Odeon cinema for a reception linked to the new Yorkshire Street digital business hub. He dispensed of the sling for the royal visit.

Speaking to the Chronicle, Councillor Heffernan said: "I had been to the Three Crowns pub and was was going home when I fell over on the street.

"I then heard a voice saying 'come on, Derek, let's get you home'. I think it was a taxi driver. He seemed to know that I was the mayor, he knew my name and where I lived.

"He put me in his cab and took me home, dropping me off at my front door.

"When I turned round at my front door, the taxi had gone. I would really like to thank the driver but I don't know his name."

Mayoress Di Heffernan added: "When Derek got home blood was pouring off his face. I was a bit shocked. I didn't know what had happened to him. He went to the A&E department and is due for another check-up at a fracture clinic this week.

"But he is always in good spirits. Our son said he shouldn't be doing any appointments this week but I said that's not his style. He's always busy."

The accident could not have happened at a busier time for the mayor. This week builds up to Remembrance Day and he has no fewer than 16 mayoral engagements.

He was due at the Royal Oldham Hospital today for a check-up but is determined to represent the borough at all the forthcoming civic events.