Tenacious Mike is making way

GLOWING tribute: Mike Rooke (right) with Greenfield and Grasscroft Residents’ Association chairman Dr Andrew Taylor

A COMMUNITY champion affectionately described as a “rottweiler” has stepped down as secretary of a local group after 11 years.

Mike Rooke, who represented Greenfield and Grasscroft Residents’ Association, has been praised by the organisation’s chairman, Dr Andrew Taylor.

Andrew said: “Mike has been the ferret to uncover important issues, the terrier to chase them down — and the rottweiler to keep a strong grip on them all.

“We will be stretched to match his energy and enthusiasm, his determination, diligence and perseverance.

“We hope we can keep up the momentum — with his continued assistance — and offer him sincere thanks for his years of dedicated service.”

Mike, a father-of-two and former head of performing arts, English and humanities at Tameside College, is planning to concentrate on writing novels.

Over the past decade the association’s membership has grown to an email network of more than 700.

Mike said, “I’ve not shirked away from asking awkward questions. I’ve beaten myself up a bit, when stones have been left unturned when I couldn’t help thinking that a different course of action could have been taken, especially when very close votes at Oldham Planning Committee have been lost.

“Active members have very different party political allegiances, but we remain united in a fierce commitment to improve our neighbourhood and defending the interests of our community.

“I see this as a positive step for our organisation, allowing younger members with fresh expertise to join our team.”

The association’s new secretary is Louise Kay, who will be assisted on planning matters by Suzanne Ogden.