Arise Sir Norman

ARISE, Sir Norman... Norman Stoller is knighted by the Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace.

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Oldham businessman and philanthropist Norman Stoller was knighted at Buckingham Palace yesterday.

It was the fourth royal honour for Sir Norman, who received an the MBE in 1976, the OBE in 1999 and the CBE in 2010 for his business and charitable successes.

The Duke of Cambridge knighted Sir Norman during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Sir Norman is a popular and iconic local figure, generously giving back to the town that gave him so much. Over the years he has given millions to charity.

Born in 1934, Sir Norman ran Oldham firm Seton Healthcare - founded by his father, Ivor, inventor of the tubular bandage that made the company world famous.

After serving in the RAF, Sir Norman started working for the company for £5 a week plus commission — building it into a worldwide brand and one of Oldham’s biggest employers.

He created the Norman Stoller Charitable Trust in the 1980s which has given millions to good causes. In 2014 alone he added a further £50 million worth of shares from his personal investments to the trust.

Donations have included £250,000 to help build Oldham’s Mahdlo youth centre, £2 million for an Oldham Enterprise Fund to help young entrepreneurs set up their own businesses, £1 million to help refurbish Gorton Monastery and £2.5million to replace Manchester Cathedral’s organ. The trust has also supported two world-leading cancer research centres at Manchester University, The Christie Hospital and the creation of two new Maggie’s cancer support centres in Oldham and Manchester.

Sir Norman lives in the Lake District with his wife, Sheila.

He served as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester in 1999/2000 and was made an Honorary Freeman of Oldham in 2008.

Councillor Jean Stretton, Oldham Council leader, said: “Sir Norman’s contributions to the local area, the economy, business and good causes are simply unmatched. He is not just an ambassador for this borough, he is also a source of inspiration to local people.

“His story shows that anything is possible if you strive to achieve your best — and the way he has continued to support future generations of young people here has been astonishing. I’d like to take this opportunity to personally congratulate him and also thank him for his steadfast belief and support to Oldham.”