A fitting tribute to 'pillar of the community' Martyn
Date published: 12 February 2021
Martyn Atkinson passed away peacefully last month
A GoFundMe page created just a week ago in memory of Oldham stalwart Martyn Atkinson has reached almost half of its £1,000 target already.
Described as ‘a pillar of the community’, Martyn passed away peacefully aged 69 on January 24 following a heart attack.
Martyn created the hugely popular Sholver-based Rangers and Fulwood Nature Reserve – affectionately known as ‘The Rangers Centre’ - in 1985.
Now, Martyn’s proud grandson Mike Weston has created the GoFundMe page in order to raise £1,000 towards a lasting memorial.
Currently the total raised is £475.
On the GoFundMe page, Mike said: “In light of the recent passing of Martyn, our family feel it is strongly fitting to raise funds in order to create a Rangers memorial, to celebrate the life of him in recognition of his services to the local community, and the Rangers Centre.
“The Rangers Centre was founded in 1985 by Martyn, situated on a council housing estate in Oldham, which has since transitioned from a run-down council estate to a haven of communal nature.
“Harnessing the time and energy from local youths, Martyn's visions were materialised by nurturing the local youths, providing them with skills, tackling vandalism, preventing boredom and in turn has brought the community together, improved local environment with the plantation of trees, shrubs and wild flowers, creation of a pond and pathways, and more!
“A nature reserve which was formed through time, dedication and funding, all stemmed from Martyn's ideas.
“As opposed to flowers, the family feel this tribute to be more fitting.
“Any donations small or large are welcomed, in order to see Martyn's memorial prosper.”
You can add your donation here
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