Garden in memory of ‘Uncle Sid’
Date published: 28 September 2009
A STUNNING garden has been opened in memory of a much-loved Chadderton character.
White doves were released as Sid’s Garden was unveiled at Kingfisher School, Foxdenton Lane, where Honorary Alderman and former Mayor Sid Jacobs (pictured right) was a governor.
Pupils and guests were led to the ceremony by a band which played “Swing Low Sweet Chariot” before head teacher Anne Redmond paid tribute to “Uncle Sid”.
She said he had been central to the school and its predecessors, Foxdenton and Gorse Bank, for 37 years, and added: “Kingfisher, our wonderful school, is made up of many parts all central to making the school what it is — an outstanding school — and running through the heart of Kingfisher School is Sid.
“Sid touched the hearts of all those he met. He truly loved all the children and staff and genuinely worked to ensure that they received the very best provision.
“Sid will always remain at the heart of this school and of all those who were privileged to know him.”
Pupils planted bulbs in the garden before balloons were released to the song “Life is a Beautiful, Beautiful Thing” which Sid would sing to pupils when he visited.
Mrs Redmond also read out a message from Sid’s widow Margaret who was unable to attend the ceremony. It said: “I hope that all those who use the garden will find comfort and, if necessary, solace for their problems.
Sid would have been so proud, for, next to home, the school was his life.”
Sid was a councillor for 50 years, a magistrate, and won the Man of Oldham title in 2006.
Known affectionately as Mr Chadderton, his numerous roles included supporting the charity Groundwork, Oldham Coliseum and Chadderton Historical Society.
He died last year aged 81 and a plaque at the Kingfisher garden reads:
“In memory of ‘Uncle Sid’ loyal supporter and friend to all who passed this way”.
Oldham West and Royton MP Michael Meacher spoke at the opening and said:
“It is wonderful there are so many people here today and I think it is a tribute to Sid.
“I knew Sid for the best part of 40 years. He wasn’t just a good friend.
“I stayed with Sid and Margaret an endless number of times and it was a home from home.
“He will always be in my mind and my heart and was by any standard an extraordinary man. Above all, his great love was Kingfisher School.”
