Awards for the people making a difference

A GROUP of around 90 local people received trophies and certificates at the prestigious New Deal for Communities Achievers’ Award ceremony.

The residents from Hathershaw and Fitton Hill were recognised for their community spirit, good neighbourliness, dedication to improving the environment and inspiring business acumen.

Some of them were honoured for their efforts to change people’s attitudes to health, achievement and success in learning and for local young people who have overcome personal odds.

The glittering ceremony, which was attended by 500 people, was held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

The awards were handed out by NDC’s key partners including Peter Rafferty from Oldham Council’s Streetscene, Gail Richards from PCT, the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Shoab Akhtar as well as Michael Meacher MP.

This year, the NDC introduced a lifetime achievement award, which was presented to Doris Smith for caring for young children in the area.

The award was presented in memory of Ian Payne (61), who was a resident board member and vice chairman of the NDC board. He died following a stroke earlier this year.

On the big stage, there were performances by vocalist Sabrina Brennan, rock band Kaos Theory and local rappers Slick Scorpioz.

And to finish off the ceremony members of the PHAB (Physically disabled and able bodied) group gave a moving rendition of Michael Jackson’s song “Heal the World”.

Following the ceremony there was a chance for guests to let their hair down and dance the night away to Souled as Seen soul band.