Patrons’ praise for Mahdlo

“INSPIRATIONAL, supportive and amazing” are all words used by Mahdlo patrons to describe the Oldham Youth Zone and its impact on the lives of local young people.

Supporters of the Egerton Street centre gathered at Mahdlo for the first Mahdlo Patrons’ Dinner, a thank-you for support and a showcase for the success stories, activities and facilities they have helped to provide.

Patrons enjoyed a meal and presentation about how the youth centre had developed since it opened in March 2012, and could see first hand how their support had made a difference.

Mahdlo president Norman Stoller said: “Mahdlo is a fantastic facility and we’d like to get more young people coming through the doors. We already have 4,000 members, but there are thousands more we need to reach. It really is a wonderful place, with so many activities on offer.”

Other supporters praised Mahdlo for providing a safe and secure place for children and teenagers and believed it was an important way of securing the town’s future through its young people.

Richard Bartlett, founder of Delph-based logistics company Insped, said he was pleased to support Mahdlo both through his business and through the Saddleworth Rotary Club: “I’m proud to support it,” he said. “I’d encourage people to get involved in supporting the centre in whatever way they can.

“Everything they receive is put to amazing use and makes a real difference.”

Terry Flanagan, chairman of the Mahdlo board, said: “Mahdlo is extremely grateful for the support in and around Oldham received from our patrons.

“This event is our way of saying thank you for their help and show them some of the great work we have been able to accomplish because of their support.”