'Great response' to lively showcase day

SHOWCASE . . . from left, Saddleworth parish councillor Jamie Curley, Dr Dave Taylor, David Knight, both from Oldham Mountain Rescue, Jane Soriente, Christine Wilson with PC Kate Guest on Bumble, and PC John Bradshaw on Tangle

A COUNCILLOR has been praised for organising a community day.

More than 30 enthusiastic organisations from Saddleworth and Oldham took part in a dynamic event tagged "It's your community - get involved."

And at the end of the marathon day, Councillor Jamie Curley, a Saddleworth parish councillor, promised: "Hopefully, we can repeat this again next year and make it a part of the Saddleworth calendar."

The Conservative councillor added: "Funds were raised, friendships made, projects launched and Facebook posts supported the concept."

Cllr Curley said the event, at Uppermill Civic Hall, was: "all about our community and raising awareness of what we have, getting people involved and sharing expertise.

"Our vibrant community thrives on volunteers and this was an opportunity for them to attract new members, raise funds and awareness and network with each other."

GMP's Community Policing Team launched their new Community Volunteer Observer scheme and Sgt Neil Barker said they were delighted they exceeded their target for volunteers.

"We had an excellent day, with 20 initial applications from the horse-riding community and five from the off-road bikers," he added.

Their colleagues from the Mounted Team brought along their horses - a big hit with the public around Uppermill.

Oldham Mountain Rescue team showed their specialised kit and vehicles, with Saddleworth Air Training Corps and the Greenfield Scouts also taking part.

A team from NatWest bank met the public and gave advice on personal banking and how the changes with the closure of the Uppermill branch can be alleviated by the new community banking scheme.

Local CEO Paul Davies reported they had received many comments and questions from customers which they had been able to answer or would take back and act on.

Groups as diverse as The Real Junk Food Project - who made soup and cakes - Oldham Community Power, Saddleworth Rotary, UCAN and autism support group FACET added to the day's lively success.

A Junk Food spokesman said: "It was a fantastic day. Thanks to all who enjoyed the grub and a super thanks to the top volunteers who have worked hard.

"What a top way to spend a day - bellies full and food diverted from landfill."

Cllr Curley added: "I would like to thank all the groups who came and were part of the day and everybody who supported them."

And Christine Wilson and Jane Soriente, from the Saddleworth and Lees district team, were complimented for their support.