Shining stars light up Pride

Date published: 04 December 2009

PRIDE IN OLDHAM AWARDS I

THE SHINING stars who put pride back in the borough were lauded in an inspiring Oscars-style ceremony.

An exhilarating eighth Oldham Evening Chronicle Pride in Oldham awards — a glittering event to celebrate unsung heroes — proved there is no end to the wonderful community stalwarts who define the borough’s character.

A 200-strong audience, including dignitaries, at the Queen Elizabeth Hall applauded stirring stories of selflessness and success that lifted the spirits.

Their heroic nature was encapsulated by 84-year-old war veteran Sidney Bannister who endured a beating to tackle a gun-toting robber and ensure the crook finished behind bars. He won the special achievement category and received a standing ovation.

From lifesaving intensive care staff to sporting superheroes, the cast of true champions never fails to enthral and delight at what is now well-established as the premier awards in the borough.

It was an unenviable task for independent judges to select those receiving coveted trophies — but there are only winners amongst the 33 magnificent finalists. Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Jim McArdle, said: “It’s a fabulous, excellent event which goes from strength to strength. I am glad I am not one of the judges because it’s so difficult. Every person here deserves to be a winner.”

Oldham West and Royton MP Michael Meacher added: “This is a very important event. It’s staged extremely well — it’s dramatic, it’s exciting — but the real point about it, which is the aim of the Oldham Chronicle, is to instil a pride in Oldham.”