Chain reaction!

Photo: Darren Robinson

The new mayor and deputy mayor, Councillors Hudson (right) and Hussain.

OLDHAM’s new mayor, Councillor John Hudson, spoke of his pride at having the opportunity to represent the borough and his hopes for the future of the town at the mayor-making ceremony yesterday.

Councillor Hudson took over the mayoral chains from Councillor Olwen Chadderton. He said: “It gives me great pride to be given the honour to represent the borough that I love.”

Councillor Fida Hussain also became deputy mayor during the ceremony

With more than 30 years on Saddleworth Parish Council and a Conservative councillor for both Saddleworth and Chadderton during his political career, Councillor Hudson has dedicated much of his life to the borough.

He insisted he would spend his time as mayor trying to change the negative perception of politics, bringing together people from across the borough to work together regardless of party politics.

He added: “By going out and meeting people in the community a mayor can act in a positive public relations capacity and shake up the image of local politics. It is about finding people and bringing them together to make Oldham better for everyone.”

Councillor Hudson promised fellow councillors he wouldn’t be a soft touch at council meetings: “You only get to be mayor once and I will do my absolute best. I hope by the end of the year some of you will be able to say the mayoral role in Oldham was safe in my hands,” he said.

This year’s Mayor’s Appeal will raise money for the Christie hospital’s Oldham centre; Oldham Music Centre and the Terence O’Grady Club.

Councillor Hudson also identified Oldham Theatre Workshop, Parents with Autistic Children and Oldham Liaison of Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund as causes he is keen to support.


MESSAGES of thanks were given to retiring Mayor, Councillor Olwen Chadderton, as she handed over the chains after an eventful year.
Councillor Tony Larkin praised the way she handled the tragedy of the Shaw explosion in which two-year-old Jamie Heaton lost his life.

In her speech, Councillor Chadderton spoke about her highlights over her mayoral year: "It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Mayor during this exciting year not only for our borough, but throughout the country."

Councillor Chadderton spoke of her role in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the passing of the Olympic torch and meeting celebrities such as Brian Cox as part of her duties.