Minister digs in for Groundwork

Phil Woolas MP (right) plants trees on Fulwood Nature Site, Sholver with the help of Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale. Also on pic are Kit Hague kneeling holding tree and left to right, Karen Collins, Cliff Ellison (director Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale), Ilyas Ali, Jade Czuba.

MP Phil Woolas proved his worth when he dug deep to plant a tree after being announced as the first patron of Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale.

The Immigration Minister and Oldham East and Saddleworth MP has been a long-time supporter of the eco-charity, and on Friday he visited a number of Groundwork projects around Oldham.

His tour took him to the Fulwood nature site in Sholver, where he rolled up his sleeves and picked up a spade to help plant some trees.

The task saw him join forces with pupils from Oldham Pupil Support Service and graduate volunteers from Groundwork’s V challenge programme.

Cliff Ellison, executive director for Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale, said: “As our first patron, Phil will act as a high-profile ambassador, promoting our values and championing our work in the local community.”