School team refused to be beaten by the snow

Date published: 18 October 2011

THE big freeze didn’t stop the bell from ringing at Royton and Crompton School earlier this year.

Head teacher Desmond Herlihy kept the school open throughout the severe icy conditions that disrupted the borough — and puts the feat predominantly down to the school’s facilities team.

The band of grafters worked around the clock in arctic conditions to prevent the pupils from missing a single day’s education.

Mr Herlihy has nominated the team for a Pride in Oldham award for their dedication and commitment to ensuring excellent maintenance at the Blackshaw Lane school.

“Their job is far from a glamorous one, but they take it very seriously and they have a sense of achievement in what they do.

“Like myself, the parents were very grateful in the team’s efforts in keeping the school open over the past two years in the horrendous weather conditions.

“Because where we are located, quite high up compared with other schools, it was a hard-working achievement to get the school open.”

The magnificent seven team members were left delighted with the nomination, especially former pupil, now turned health and safety manager, Vicky Fletcher.

The Shaw resident (23) said: “It is really nice to be recognised for the work you do.

“With regards to the bad weather we have had over the past two years, it was a nightmare and we worked round the clock at weekends to get the pupils into school, because that is the most important thing.

“Myself, as a former pupil, I feel glad that I can give something back to the school.”