Web shows Oldham in a positive light

A SHOWCASE website highlighting all that is good about the borough has gone live.

The Oldham Council website (www.visitoldham.com) explores opportunities in everything from art and culture to history and nature, and offers an accommodation search for tourists.

The website sells Oldham as culturally diverse, rich in industrial heritage and vibrant, and offers ideas for people looking for opportunity, leisure or relaxation.

Shopping at Tommyfield Market, sailing on Dovestone Reservoir and walking along the Rochdale Canal are just some of the suggestions, as well as a pointer to the local food and drink on offer from the borough’s many cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Among the gems highlighted are the award-winning Gallery Oldham, which takes visitors on a journey of history and heritage with its collection of artwork and objects.

Saddleworth Museum is also featured, with its fascinating insight into the lives of its people, from the people who scraped a living weaving cloth to the soldiers who shivered at Castleshaw Roman Fort.

And the Oldham Coliseum Theatre, which has played host to some of the biggest names in showbiz, is promoted as combining old-world charm with a lively programme of entertainment and a warm welcome.

Many more options are covered, including the Peak District National Park, an exploration of the picturesque villages, reservoirs, woods, moors and meadows around Saddleworth.

And the borough’s four countryside centres use the website to tell of a wide range of courses for adventure, leisure and learning for all ages.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “This portal provides us with a fantastic opportunity to promote all parts of the borough as a destination far and wide.

“But it is also a great way for residents to find out more and explore what attractions and events are here, right on their very own doorstep.

“The borough has something for everyone and I hope many people will be logging on to see what we have to offer.”

Oldham Council leader Councillor Howard Sykes added: “Oldham is a thriving and bustling borough and boasts some of the best facilities for miles around in terms of shopping, sports, entertainment and leisure.

“The good thing about visitoldham.com is that it promotes a wide range of activities for people of all budgets and tastes, and with money being a bit tight at the moment you do not have to spend a lot to enjoy them.”