Council honours its stars

THE stars were shining when council staff who go beyond the call of duty were honoured.

Oldham’s Special Thanks and Recognition (STAR) Awards recognise workers who provide an excellent service to the public and inspire their colleagues.

There were 10 categories, with the winners receiving a certificate and a trophy from chief executive Andrew Kilburn.

He said: “It is a wonderful opportunity to give staff and the public the chance to say thanks to those special people who have shown dedication and excellence.

“Everyone who has received a nomination should feel proud. Not only have they won support from their colleagues, but from the people the council exists to serve.”

The winners:

Young employee of the year: Andrew Marsland, Alexandra Park. Highly commended: David Marlor, Payroll.

Customer service award: Alison Wells, Skills for Life co-ordinator. Highly commended: Nikki Quigg, Aaron Taylor, Jo Stanley, Elvin Lucas, waste management.

Working Together for Oldham: Oldham Youth Council (supported by CYPF). Highly commended: Simon Papprill, regeneration; Karen Darlington and Elaine Naylor catering and cleaning.

Personal development award: Gary Holt, cleaning , FCHO. Highly commended: Simon France, Lifelong Learning; Eleanor Sykes, regeneration.

Community Hero: Simon Shuttleworth, neighbourhood management. Highly commended: Graham Bowman and Angela Matthews, New Deal for Communities.

Unsung Hero: Daksha Mistry, New Deal for Communities. Highly commended: Ray Barlow, Street Scene.

School Employee of the Year: Paula Revill, Alt Primary. Highly commended: Neal Cavanagh, Hodge Clough Junior.

Team of the Year: Family Learning Service, Lifelong Learning. Highly commended: Recycling service.

Manager of the Year: Barbara Christopher, social work team, disability service. Highly commended: Steve Smith, parks manager and Catherine Irwin, lifelong learning.

Employee of the Year: Anne-Marie Diallo, social inclusion unit. Highly commended: Alison Royal, catering and cleaning.