Michael’s proud to make history

Michael Lawson: BEM in New Year Honours

MICHAEL Lawson has made his own piece of history: he will receive the British Empire Medal for services to heritage and the Chadderton community.

The father of four, who lives in Moreton Street, was one of the founders of Chadderton Historical Society, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in May. He has been its secretary since its inception.

A veteran of many local events — from the Chadderton and Lancashire Day celebrations to Christmas lights switch ons — Mr Lawson (71) said he was proud and humbled by the award.

He added: “I love history and the heritage of Chadderton and the borough, and I look upon this as an honour for all the members of the historical society.

“We have got a very good society in Chadderton, as we have in other parts of the borough, and we are hoping in the next year to have a heritage centre for Chadderton.

“That will be the final icing on the cake because we have got a fantastic and substantial archive.”

Mr Lawson (71) was head teacher at Holy Family Primary School, Limeside, for 14 years before he took early retirement in 1996. He was previously deputy head at St Herbert’s Primary School, Chadderton, and has been an organist at St Herbert’s Church for 40 years.

He worked as a supply teacher until three years ago and still visits Chadderton schools to do local history projects.