Barry ‘an asset to Oldham’

BARRY RATCLIFFE with Scouts from Fitton Hill

A SCOUT leader and community stalwart has received two separate nominations for a Pride of Oldham Award.

Barry Ratcliffe (40), from Putney Close, Royle Park, has been part of the scouting movement for the past 20 years.

As well as leading the Knolls Lane scout group in Lees, he is also assistant district commissioner for Oldham scouts.

But it’s also his community work and selflessness that has earned him his nominations.

Friends said he deserved to be put forward because he never thinks of himself before others, and has organised activities such as camp trips and swimming galas for the scouts.

Amanada and Mitch Whitehead described him as “an asset to Oldham”, adding: “We’ve nominated him for his outstanding contribution to scouting in Oldham.”

Gillian Thompson said: “Barry deserves recognition for all the work he does for the 10th Oldham scouts. 

“A lot of boys and girls would have no social life without Barry. He’s fantastic.”

Mr Ratcliffe, who works at BAE Systems Woodford, said: “This is a real surprise.

“I’m just doing my bit, giving back to the community and giving children the right principles to follow.

Rewards 

“Being part of the scouts is a lot of fun and you get your rewards from seeing children reach their goals.

“I even get former scouts that I’ve led offering to help out with the youngsters on a part-time basis.

“The day I stop enjoying being part of the scouts is the day I’ll hang up my woggle.”

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