Oldhamers celebrate well-deserved awards in King's latest Birthday Honours List

Oldham businessman and Latics chairman Frank Rothwell

A number of people from Oldham - or connected to the borough - have been named in the King's Birthday Honours List.

Arguably the most notable name on the list is Frank Rothwell, the Oldham businessman who has rowed across the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for charity twice and has guided Latics back to the Football League as co-owner of the club.

Frank, who is 74, has been Latics chairman since July 2022.

He receives the OBE in recognition of his work as a "philanthropist and fundraiser", for charitable services to dementia research.

Part of a statement on the Latics website read: "As a club, we are so proud to call Frank our chairman. Congratulations, Frank!"

The only woman from Oldham to be named on the list is Susan Crook, who has been awarded a British Empire Medal.

Ms Crook is a founding member of the Dobcross Youth Band and is being recognised for her services to music and to the community in Dobcross.

First Choice Homes Oldham chief executive Mark Gifford (above) today spoke of his pride and surprise after receiving an OBE for his contribution to public service.

Mr Gifford took over the helm at the housing association in December following four years in charge of the National Citizen Service Trust.

“I am honoured, humbled and very surprised to be recognised in this way by the King in his Birthday Honours,” he said.

Also being honoured for his charity work is Muzahid Khan DL, who is being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to charity and the community in Oldham.

Mr Khan's work for charity and in the community has included work with Oldham social enterprise Upturn and being a Deputy Lieutenant for Greater Manchester.

A man with strong connections to Oldham who is also on the Honours List is Harry Catherall, the former chief executive of Oldham Council.

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