Mayor reaches out ahead of that special birthday or anniversary

The community-driven Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Ginny Alexander, has launched a unique, open-handed scheme touching the hearts of townsfolk.

She is asking anyone who has a family member, friend or neighbour to email her directly with their special personal anniversary or birthday requests, specifically targeting anyone from July onward who is celebrating a 100th birthday or significant wedding anniversary - ruby, gold, diamond or platinum..

The kind-hearted councillor has had her mayoral office extended by the leader of the council Sean Fielding until May next year because of the crisis.

But the pandemetic has caused widespread chaos and led to a heart-breaking shutdown of key family events that would have been celebrated and shared during her time as mayor.

“I want everyone to feel the joy and know they are loved and their hopes and aspirations are still very much supported during these extraordinary times," Cllr Alexander explained.

In return, she says she will make a personal visit to each of them with a special card and a present.

The Mayor said: “I decided to do this because of the vast number of people in lockdown who are not able to share or celebrate their own special day.

"I didn’t want them to feel isolated.

"I thought I’d bring a bit of joy to those and make their day extra memorable. 

“At the moment we still cannot attend large events, but this is my way of showing we care about people and cannot allow their special day go unnoticed.

“I will accept people who are 80 years and over but not younger, and only those who live in the Borough. 

“These are remarkable local folk who have been the very backbone of our town over the years but, because of the current rules, it may not be safe to share their very special day with their families or friends. 

“I wanted them all to know they are all very much loved and cared for by the town.”

The inbox of her email is already filling with requests to share in the unique celebration which is backed by her consort husband, Adrian, and the town’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Jenny Harrison.

Cllr Alexander, who celebrates 30 years of marriage to her husband on July 28, added: “The idea seems to have touched a magical chord.

‘‘I’m just so pleased that folk want me to visit in my capacity as mayor.

"It’s very humbling.”

If you have a birthday or anniversary request, email: ginny.alexander@oldham.gov.uk

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