Mayor’s positive outlook

THE new Mayor of Oldham has pledged to be a “good news ambassador” for the borough.

One-time Oldham Lib-Dem council leader Richard Knowles took over the chain of office today and said he not only wanted to promote Oldham’s strengths to its residents — but to the rest of Britain.

He explained: “We all need to be more positive. During my mayoral year I will particularly welcome two new developments which herald important new opportunities for the future of this borough and its diverse communities.

“Firstly, Metrolink will open later this year as a completely rebuilt, high-frequency link from Manchester, through Failsworth, Hollinwood, South Chadderton and Freehold to Mumps.

“Make no mistake, Metrolink will help attract new investors into the borough as well as improving our transport links.

“Secondly, the Regional Science Centre will open, providing more educational opportunities in science for our young people and link with the achievements of Oldham Sixth Form College and University Campus Oldham.” Councillor Knowles began his political and public service career in Newcastle in 1970 when he joined the Young Liberals.

He took up a temporary job at Salford University in 1972 — where he is now a professor with an international reputation for transport geography — and moved to Chadderton with his wife, Valerie, who is the Mayoress.

They now live in Greenfield, which he has represented as a borough councillor since 1982.

Councillor Knowles has chosen Oldham Promobility, which provides electric wheelchairs and scooters for disabled shoppers; Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Royton; and Barnado’s Oldham as his mayoral charities.

He will also present some of the money raised to smaller charities and organisations.

“As mayor, I am particularly keen to visit our schools, colleges and university centre and see our children and grandchildren acquiring skills to equip them for life and work in the 21st century,” added Councillor Knowles.

“I also intend to encourage more schools to become involved in ‘Grow your Own’ schemes so that children experience planting, growing and eating home-grown food.”