Seven-year journey to successful launch

NORMAN STOLLER (centre) with fellow Patrons of the new £5million Mahdlo Youth Zone at the official launch-day celebrations

“Fantastic,” “inspiring,” “motivational,” “wicked,” “awesome,” “fab” and “audacious” were just some of the words Oldham’s young people have used to describe their new £5 million club, which officially opened last night.

Oldham’s young people have been involved every step of the way in the seven-year journey that culminated in the unveiling of Mahdlo, an impressive state-of-the-art facility now open to anyone aged eight to 21.

Oldham’s Youth Mayor, Chantel Birtwistle, said a heartfelt thanks from the youth of Oldham as she performed the official opening ceremony.

Chantel said Mahdlo was a “work of art grown from a diagram,” and was “proof of how Oldham values its young people.”

Norman Stoller, who kickstarted fundraising in 2005 with a £250,000 donation, was described as the “rocket fuel” behind the project, and spoke of his pride in Mahdlo following years of dreaming, talking, planning, arguing and dedicated effort.

Mr Stoller said of Mahdlo: “It provides a safe haven for all, regardless of colour, gender, religion or country of origin.”


The full version of this story is part of an eight-page special on the opening of Mahdlo in tonight’s print and e-Chron editions.

Pictures from the event can be seen on the “Buy a Photo:tab” above