Chain reaction is so positive

Former Parish Council Chairman Councillor Enid Firth and Chairman Neil Allsopp.

THE new chairman of Saddleworth Parish Council Neil Allsopp told a packed civic hall: “I’ve got some very big footsteps to follow.”

Councillor Allsopp, born and bred in Greenfield, was unanimously voted in to role by the 20-strong council at its annual general meeting.

In his inaugural speech he said: “I went into the council chamber and looked at the board listing the past chairmen — there are some very big footsteps to follow.

“They have each done their best for Saddleworth and made their own mark and served the area well. I hope I can do the same.”

Councillor Allsopp, a who began his political involvement while living in Mossley, thanked councillors for their support and vowed: “I promise to do my utmost to help this wonderful, unique and precious place where we live.”

He was presented with his chain of office by outgoing chairman Councillor Enid Firth.

And, with help from the Chairman’s Charity Committee, he will raise funds during his year of office with his main chosen charities: Oldham Mountain Rescue Team, Francis House, Grace’s Place and Ball Boys.

Four-time parish chairman Councillor John Hudson, who proposed Councillor Allsopp as chairman, said: “Neil will be a person who carries out the role with confidence and ability.”

Councillor Allsopp will be supported by new vice-chair, Councillor Pam Byrne, who is taking on a second term at the parish council.

Councillor Byrne was invested with her chain of office and her daughter, Helen Harrison, received the vice-chair’s consort’s chain.

A vote of thanks was given to retiring chairman Councillor Firth and medallions were presented to her and her consort Councillor Bill Cullen.

Councillor Firth said: “I have really enjoyed my time as chairman. It has been a hard year as my eldest daughter has been very ill but I hope I have been a good ambassador for Saddleworth.”

And she had a message for the new chairman: “Work for the whole of Saddleworth not just two or three of the villages as they are all just as wonderful.”

There were votes of thanks to outgoing councillors Alan Roughley, Sharon McGladdery, Royce Franklin, Bill Cullen, Enid Firth, Garth Harkness, Rob McCann, David Caddick and Lesley Schofield.

New parish clerk Pam Bailey, who took over in February, was officially welcomed to her role while thanks were given to previous clerk, Tony Marlor for his work over eight years.