Brave Ray

BRAVE Ray Barlow is in line for a Pride of Oldham Award.

CLEARING litter, sweeping paths, saving lives . . . it’s all in a day’s work for council worker Ray Barlow. 

And the 24-year-old could soon add winning trophies to his repertoire after he was nominated for a Pride in Oldham Award.

Ray, who has worked for the council’s Street Scene team for the past two years, was walking to work in August last year when he spotted a shop ablaze in Ashton Road. 

Quick-thinking Ray, who lives in Bardsley, called the fire brigade before helping Pravin Vekaringa, the shop’s owner, get his family of nine out of the building. 

Prevent 

When his lifesaving duties were over Ray ran the rest of the way to work to ensure he wouldn’t be late. 

Peter Rafferty, group manager of Street Scene, is so proud of Ray’s efforts that he has also nominated him for a national bravery award.

He said: “Ray’s quick thinking and thought for others helped to prevent what could have been a tragedy.

“He left the area before his efforts and the part he played were recognised by
the firefighters because he was convinced he would be late for work.

“Both the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Mr Vekaringa have publicly thanked Ray for his part in the rescue.

“Ray is very modest about his role in the rescue and he deserves to be recognised.” 

Ray added: “I am really pleased to be nominated. It feels good. I acted on impulse when I saw the fire and didn’t really think about what I was doing. It was instinct.”

To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008


Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons