Celebrating success in Oldham

Reporter: DAWN MARSDEN and ALEX CAREY
Date published: 28 March 2014


OLDHAM’S brightest and best business brains enjoyed a night of glamour at one of Oldham’s most important awards ceremonies.

Prizes were handed out in 10 categories at the One Oldham Business Awards, now in its sixth year.

The Queen Elizabeth Hall played host to almost 500 guests for a champagne reception, four-course meal, entertainment and a charity casino.

Finalists included a young barber, an ice cream maker, a solicitor and the head of a social housing firm – with pubs, restaurants and cafes also making the shortlist.

The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor John Hudson, said: “The people at this awards ceremony are the people helping the council to transform the town. They are getting behind our initiatives and bringing the town into the 21st century.

“These people deserve a lot of praise and don’t always get the recognition they deserve. Without their expertise and devotion, we couldn’t do half the things we do.”

Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, added: “I always enjoy coming to this event and showing my support for local businesses. They are the lifeblood of Oldham’s economy and we should be doing everything we can to help them.

“It’s lovely to come to an event that recognises these achievements and we should be really proud of all the finalists.”

Chronicle business editor Martyn Torr compered the evening and talented youngsters from Mahdlo Youth Zone opened proceedings with a dance routine. Failsworth Community band also entertained guests, as did soloists Natalie McGrath and Chris Jay.

A raffle for Mahdlo saw prizes - including a holiday to London and tickets to watch Manchester United take on Bayern Munich in the Champions League at Old Trafford - handed to lucky winners.

Peter Gill, from event sponsors NatWest, said: “We have been on board with the One Oldham Business Awards from its inception six years ago. They are always great occasions and where Oldham leads, other boroughs follow. Surrounding areas now hold their own, similar events. It’s fantastic to get all the business community together and celebrate our success.”