Businesses are urged to back appeal

THE Christie’s at Oldham appeal has a new business champion — Frank Rothwell.

The owner of Hollinwood-based Manchester Cabins has sent out a clarion call to the business community to get behind the appeal and make it a success.

He wants his business colleagues to show their support by encouraging their staff to put their heads together to come up with novel ways of raising money for the cause.

The 58-year-old father-of-two made his first plea as the appeal’s business champion at this month’s first One Oldham Business Awards presentation ceremony.

He threw the gauntlet down from the podium at the Queen Elizabeth Hall to a captive audience of more than 400 Oldham businessmen and women. And he is now sending out his message to every business leader in the borough.

He said: “Every single one of us has been touched by cancer, whether it be themselves, a close relative, or a friend.

“Once this radiotherapy centre is opened, it will save people who are poorly from having to traipse from Oldham every day to South Manchester, to a place which is difficult to find and where it is difficult to park.”

He added: “This is a marvellous opportunity for us to make a difference in Oldham, and it is something that will benefit us all.

“I am asking you to encourage your staff to organise something simple to raise money for the appeal — something everyone can get involved in, such as a sponsored walk, a bed push or by making a weekly donation.”

Frank employs 35 staff at the company he set up as a one-man band 30 years ago, and said he would be challenging them to do their bit for the appeal.

Use Facebook to spread the word

IF you are taking part in or hosting a fund-raising event, you can use the social networking site Facebook to tell your friends and seek support.

The Christie has created a fan page for people to show their support and keep up to date on its work, forthcoming events and fund-raising activities. Go to www.facebook.com/pages/The-Christie/66210278744 and share the page with your friends or use the wall and discussion area to keep in touch with other Christie supporters. Keep up with the latest news from the Christie by signing up to its free monthly e-newsletter at www.christies.org/newsletter/default.aspx