Chance of a lifetime for awards sponsor

MANCHESTER Cabins are the latest backers of the One Oldham Chronicle Business Awards which are capturing the imagination of the borough’s business community.

The Hollinwood firm, founded by entrepreneur Frank Rothwell, has agreed to sponsor a ninth category — the Lifetime Achievement Award.

This will be presented to a person who, in the opinion of the judging panel, has made a “significant, meaningful and lasting” contribution to the business life of Oldham.

A number of powerful candidates rapidly spring to mind but it will up to the panel — comprising representatives of awards sponsors Royal Bank of Scotland, title sponsors the Evening Chronicle, Oldham Council, Greater Manchester Chamber and a representative from the associate sponsors — to determine a recipient.

Speaking from his Tweedale Way base, Mr Rothwell, from Saddleworth, said: “I am delighted to become a sponsor of these awards.

“Anyone who knows me is aware of how passionate I am about Oldham and how we need to promote ourselves.

“I see these awards as an essential part of that process and I wish them every success.”

Chronicle circulation manager Steve Duthie said: “This is something we have been contemplating from the concept of these awards and we are delighted that Frank Rothwell and Manchester Cabins have decided to back our initiative.

“It is important to make an early decision on the person who will be honoured to ensure they are present on the night to receive their award and acknowledgement from the Oldham business community.”

The awards — there are eight categories in addition to the lifetime achievement gong — will be presented at a gala dinner at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham, on Friday, April 3.

Already 210 tickets have been sold for what promises to be one of the biggest nights the Oldham business community has ever seen.

Tables of 10 can be reserved for £350 — or £400 with an advert in the evening’s menu — by calling Steve Duthie on 0161-633 2121. Individual tickets cost £35.

The evening will comprise a champagne reception with canapes, five-course meal with wine and, in addition to the Oscars-style presentations, there will be entertainment throughout the evening.