Resolution 2009: But will our best-laid plans last longer than the turkey sandwiches?

THERE is nothing like a New Year to steer our thoughts towards the future and what changes we want to make in our lives.

New Year resolutions range from getting fit and stopping smoking, to learning new skills and travelling to far-flung places. But many shun the annual pledges which are often broken as quickly as they are made. So what resolutions are Oldhamers making for 2009, if any?

Reporter BEATRIZ AYALA spoke to shoppers at Chadderton Precinct to find out.

Diane Smith (43), from Chadderton, admitted she had tried making resolutions before but had trouble keeping them.

She said: “However, this year I’d like to give up smoking and go on holiday with my nine-year-old girl.

“I haven’t been on holiday for a long time but fancy a week somewhere like Devon or Cornwall.

“Going on holiday in 2009 might be a bit hard at the moment because of the economic situation but although it might be difficult to juggle everything, something could happen.”

Gerald Cooper (83), Maple Close, Chadderton, was looking forward to home comforts in 2009.

He said: “I’m from Shaw but living in Chadderton while the sheltered accommodation I’m in is being refurbished.

“I’ll be glad to move back in 2009 , although it won’t be until July or August.I believe in resolutions.”

Diane Collyher (44), from Manchester, has big plans for 2009.

She said: “My resolution is to lose weight and eat more healthily.

“It’s the same as other years but I’m getting married in December and am determined to lose weight and get a nice dress.

“Resolutions are part of New Year because you like to start it off with good intentions.”

Michael Davidson (30), from Ripponden Road, said: “I haven’t actually decided what my resolution is, but it is probably stopping smoking.

“I’ve stopped before but got a bit stressed and then started again.

“I’m hoping to stick with it, but I also want to drink less and healthier because I’m getting a belly.

“I think this year people will make resolutions with the credit crunch in mind and anything that costs.”

Barbara Tonge (61), from Middleton, said: “I’ve not made any resolutions this year but I want to lose weight although it’s so hard to do.

“It’s doing the resolution that is difficult, not the making.”

Her husband Harry (60) said: “I don’t believe anyone actually sticks to them, everyone’s forgot come January 2.

“My resolution is not to be stopped in the street and asked questions.”

Ian Bolton (43), from South Chadderton, said he intended to lay off the chocolate.

He said: “But it’s like resolving to go to the gym and after three weeks it’s forgotten.

“However, I’m quite positive about 2009.”

His son Tyler Bolton (11) said: “I sometimes make resolutions and sometimes school makes us make them.

“I’ve made resolutions to keep my room tidy before, so I’ll make a final decision maybe today or tomorrow.”

Christine Seal (49), from Chadderton, who is a youth and support workers for people with learning disabilities, is already looking towards 2010.

She said: “I’m determined to pass my NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care for my own development at work.

“My work is my passion, it’s a real vocation so I’m determined.

“I am also hoping to go on a Caribbean cruise in 2010 as I went on a Mediterranean one this year and loved it.

“I’m quite a positive person and know what I want.

“Whether I get it or not is another matter.”