Chantel’s about to make history

CHANTEL Birtwistle will become the Oldham’s first female youth mayor tomorrow.

The 19-year-old from Chadderton will take over the chains of office from Liam Turner at a ceremony in the council chamber.

Chantel is in the first year of an art degree at the Bolton University and has been a member of Oldham Youth Council for four years.

During that time the former North Chadderton High School pupil has been involved in numerous community activities and voluntary work — including a 200ft charity abseil off the civic centre.

She represented Oldham when she was chosen to visit the House of Commons as a Member of the Youth Parliament. It was the first time in 300 years anyone other than MPs had debated in the chamber.

Chantel is also is a member of the Mahdlo development group which is overseeing work on the borough’s new £5m youth club.

As youth mayor she will carry out civic duties alongside Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Richard Knowles, and will also represent the borough’s young people at a variety of community events.

Chantel said: “I’m honoured to have been chosen. I’m particularly interested in getting out and about to parts of the borough I’ve never been to so I can meet members of different communities.

“The previous two youth mayors are hard acts to follow but I’m confident I’m up to the challenge and will carry on their good work — I’ll bring a female touch to the role.

Oldham Council leader Jim McMahon — one the youngest people in the country to lead a local authority — said: “I am sure Chantel will not only be an ambassador for young people and her peers, but also the borough.