Veteran bowlers get a new lease of life

THE future’s bright . . . Tony Doyle with other club members

THE future is looking bright for a Chadderton over-60s club thanks to a helping hand from Oldham Council.

The council has granted St George’s Square Club a 30-year lease, which means it can now raise money and look for grants in the knowledge of long-term occupancy.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “We’re delighted we have been able to work closely with members of the community in Chadderton in a way that benefits the club and residents.

“Previously the club only had a short-term lease so could apply only to small funds. Now they have a long-term lease, organisations can see they are going to be around for years, so they could be more open to committing resources and money.

“This is a good solution that we hope might inspire other groups who feel they could run a plot of land or building.”

Club chairman Fred Hembrough said: “We are now able to look forward to a more secure future with greater confidence to build on the improvements funded by the local authority over recent years.”

email: dawnmarsden@oldham-chronicle.co.uk