Lights fantastic for campaigner

Frank Rothwell

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A BUSINESS man who brought his own version of the famous Hollywood sign to national attention will be switching on the Hollinwood Christmas Lights.

Frank Rothwell, who owns Manchester Cabins, brought a touch of LA glamour to Oldham in August when he mocked up a version of the famous Hollywood hills landmark.

The 8ft high white letters, which spelt out ‘Hollinwood’, were installed on the M60 embankment until they were removed by the Highways Agency who said they were a distraction and danger to drivers.

Now Mr Rothwell will making a second mark on Hollinwood when he flicks the switch on December 9 at the old Roxy Cinema site.

Mr Rothwell said: “I was flabbergasted to be asked, I’ve never done anything like this before but it is a great honour

“Local councillors Stephen Barrow and Philip Holley asked me to do it, I don’t know why.

“It must be because I brought Hollinwood to the attention of the country and the fact I am a local business man.”

Mr Rothwell is set to face Oldham Planning committee on October 28 over his application for a permanent Hollinwood sign made out of steel plate, built on secure foundations and kept well away from traffic.

Hundreds of Oldham Evening Chronicle readers answered an

‘Are you Backing Frank?’ campaign over the summer to have a permanent gateway to the borough.

Mr Rothwell might also be planning a few surprises when he attends the Hollinwood switch on.

He said: “I haven’t decided if I’ll be bringing any signs along, I don’t want to be revealing anything until closer to the day.”