Paul's prestigious new role

Paul Sykes

Paul Sykes has been selected as the new Mayor of Austerlands.

Mr Sykes, whose wife Joan served in the role a few years ago, is one of the quiet backroom Trojans at the industrious Austerlands and Scouthead Community Group.

The Mayor is a selected ceremonial role and among the duties are to lead the first band on Whit Friday Band Contests, present trophies to the prize winners and to place a wreath at Saddleworth's oldest war memorial in Austerlands on Remembrance Sunday morning.

Plus there will be other appearances as requested throughout the year.

Mr Sykes has lead a varied life, which included training as motor engineer before moving to repairing and maintaining heavy plant equipment and then into management.

He joined university as a mature student and became a teacher and help train with disaffected and challenging young people, a most rewarding role.

Since retiring he has volunteered in a special education setting for young people.

As one one of the founders of the Austerlands and Scouthead Community group, he has worked on a host of projects including Dawsons Field Fun Day, gardening initiatives, the locals' Christmas tree and Whit Friday band contests.

He said: "I’m very fortunate to work with local community inspired volunteers and, working as a team, we can all be proud living in our community.”

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.