Dream turns to reality

Norman Stoller: unable to check his enthusiasm!

‘Together we have created something of real value’
FOR some years now we have dreamt about it, talked about it, laid all kind of plans and argued about it.

Where location was concerned, we have even fought numerous battles for it and, at last, the dream has turned into reality and through our combined and dedicated efforts, Mahdlo has finally been born.

I believe that this transformation from dream to reality has succeeded through three driving forces.

The first has been Bill Holroyd’s vision, for it was he who saw the need to replicate the fantastic achievements of the Bolton Lads and Girls Club throughout the length and breadth of the country, starting in the North-West and most certainly in Oldham where the seeds of new innovation have always flowered in fertile ground.

The second important driver has been the interest, goodwill and generous help that has been shown by all who have grasped the importance of this centre of excellence

Third among equals in bringing us to this point today has been the skill and attention to detail of our chairman, William Lees-Jones, and his committee of brilliant, determined and highly capable people, for they have combined to produce a solid foundation on which to make progress.

Together we have created something of real value and it is with a sense of purpose and humility that I share the moment with you.

Today the real work is just about to begin.

For the young people of Oldham, today is also the start of a life of brand new opportunities, experiences and prospects as this wonderful facility opens its doors for them to enjoy.

Essentially it provides a safe haven for all, regardless of colour, gender, religion or country of origin.

Mahdlo will be what each individual member wants it to be.

But whatever their preference, Mahdlo will be consistent in quality output and warm, friendly and open to all who respect themselves, their fellow members, the facilities and to all who want it to be a place of fun.

The Oldham of old, that some of us remember, with its dark satanic mills, its dismal surroundings and the constant cry that nothing is being done for its young people are gone for good and you only have to look around to see why.

Oldham has many strengths and one is that there has always been a willingness to form partnerships for progress.

The same applies to Mahdlo and that is why our staff, our financial supporters and those who have come forward to offer help by way of their talent, skill and experience are so vital to its success.

In this picture of real progress and positive improvement there is one more constant need which, without question, forms the most formidable challenge for all.

For it is to ensure that our young people really do believe in themselves and share our conviction that, regardless of their background and circumstances, they can and will achieve their own goals, providing that they have the ambition, the courage and the staying power to do so.

This then is our mission . . . let us now get on with it and one day look back with pride at we together have really accomplished.



Norman K Stoller

CBE, DL, Founding sponsor and President of Mahdlo




The full version of Mr Stoller’s speech 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 Phot



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