Outpouring of civic pride

Mayor Making of Olwen Chadderton at Oldham Civic Centre 2012 -13

EMOTIONAL tributes and heartfelt votes of thanks were the foundations of a memorable day for Oldham, when Councillor Olwen Chadderton became Mayor yesterday.

She takes the prestigious position from Councillor Richard Knowles, who has suffered a turbulent year as Mayor having been diagnosed with nasal cancer just a few months ago.

He temporarily withdrew from his duties to undergo treatment, giving the then Deputy Mayor Councillor Chadderton an early taste of what life was to be like representing the borough.

She gained her mayoral chain yesterday following a traditional ceremony, in which she said she was “immensely” looking forward to carrying out her duties.

Councillor Tony Larkin, a close friend of Councillor Chadderton, led the nominations hailing her consistent duties to the town.

Resounding thanks were given to Councillor Richard Knowles, who yesterday stepped down from his duties as Mayor after a testing year.

Council and Labour leader Jim McMahon said: “It is a privilege to have had someone with your humanity as Mayor.

“No-one wanted that illness to strike you, but you still gave the job your all for the people of Oldham, and have done some remarkable things.”
(the full story is availble in print and eChron versions in Thursday’s Chronicle).