All smiles for mega Malcolm

Pride in Oldham nominee Malcolm Campbell, facilities staff member at Royton and Crompton School.

A SCHOOL caretaker, described as the "backbone" of Royton and Crompton School, has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Malcolm Campbell joined the school in 2009 at the age of 65 to cover a period of absence over the six weeks holidays ­- and never left.

Since then, the 72-year-old has become a stalwart of the school premises team and keen contributor to school life, helping staff whenever asked.

Prior to his stint at the school, Malcolm's work in youth football as player, coach and latterly FA scout saw him featured in a book about the careers of local unsung football heroes.

And many Royton and Crompton staff 40 years his junior are still scuppered by his abilities on the pitch.

Head teacher Neil Hutchinson, who nominated him for the award, said Malcolm still goes about his daily work with the same happy smiling face.

He said: "Malcolm is one of Royton and Crompton's unsung heroes and for that, he truly deserves our respect and thanks.

"He is one of the school's backbones, always working hard and going the extra mile, from digging the school out of snow to fixing a member of staff's windscreen wipers or offering to bring in the sandwiches in the holiday periods.

"He is always calm and always with that endearing smile."

Malcolm said: "I'm shocked but thrilled to be nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

"I really enjoy working at Royton and Crompton School and I'm grateful to have been nominated."