One big night
Reporter: Martyn Torr
Date published: 16 March 2011
AFTER the most intensive judging round in the three-year history of the One Oldham Business Awards, the finalists for the ten categories for 2011 have been announced.
With 89 nominations in total, the ten judging panels – each chaired by the category sponsor – had a mammoth task simply to arrive at shortlists. For the second successive year, the judges were assisted by young people from Oldham Youth Council and the borough’s three colleges.
Steve Kilroy, from BAE Systems at Chadderton, who chairs the organiser steering group, said: “All the judges deserve enormous credit. This is a thankless task and the standards are getting higher and higher year on year.
“I know from personal experience, judging the innovation category, just how difficult a process this can be.
“In one sector we had almost 30 entries so I certainly don’t envy the judges in that one, that’s for sure.
“But I must take this opportunity to thank everyone for making a nomination, for taking part in a what has been a rewarding experience and a demonstration of all that is good about the Oldham business community and the Oldham economy.
“We are a strong borough and we are going places – and this is just the sort of event that supports that and shows that the business people of Oldham have a part to play in our continuing renaissance.”
The finalists will learn at the black-tie gala presentation dinner at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on Friday – a 450-ticket sell out with a waiting list for tickets – who will take home the prizes.
Each finalist will see a short video of themselves and their business before the golden envelope is opened to reveal the winner.
Dr Kershaw’s Hospice and Oldham Youth Zone Mahdlo will benefit from a casino, sponsored by OMC Ford Oldham, and a charity raffle, sponsored by Lufthansa, on the night which kicks off at 6.30pm with a champagne and canapés reception and music from the sensational Failsworth Community Band.
FULL LIST of finalists in tonight’s Oldham Evening Chronicle and the E-Chron (subscription required)
