Putting Hollinwood on the map

Photo: Picture: ANTHONY MILLER

HOORAY for Hollinwood . . . Pride award nominee Frank Rothwell and his Christmas lights sign.

INTREPID businessman Frank Rothwell has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award for his efforts in putting Hollinwood on the map.

The Manchester Cabins boss brought a touch of Tinsel town to Oldham after creating his own version of the famous Hollywood sign. He erected 8ft-high letters spelling out Hollinwood on the M60 embankment last August.

But the move courted controversy after highways bosses removed the sign, saying it was a dangerous distraction to motorists.

Determined Frank was hailed a hero by locals, though, and was invited to turn on Hollinwood’s Christmas lights — with the sign making a comeback to glitter with 1,000 lights.

He worked with engineering pupils to construct the smaller festive version.

Frank enthusiastically continued his fight for a full-sized version of the sign on the motorway embankment following support from hundreds of Chronicle readers and Facebook users.

Oldham Council granted planning permission last October but the Highways Agency will not allow it on its land. Frank is to explore new ways of getting permission in the New Year.

Readers nominated Frank for a Pride award in honour of his efforts.

Modest Frank said: “I’m astounded. I would have thought there’s a lot more people who have done more for Hollinwood than myself.

“I just want to promote Hollinwood and I have a bee in my bonnet about Hollinwood losing its identity and name.

“Since the M60 came through, Hollinwood is disappearing and businesses are changing their names so people can’t identify Hollinwood.

“All I want to do is promote Hollinwood in a positive way. I’m happy that I’m getting backing.”