Judith’s medal pride

MAYORAL approval: Judith Haughton, second left, with Mayor Cllr John Hudson, Pauline Bowling who nominated Judith, and Mayoress Kathleen Hudson

COMMUNITY stalwart Judith Haughton beamed with pride as she received her British Empire Medal for years of dedication to Oldham.

Judith (66) of Scarr Lane, Shaw, received the award at Manchester town hall — and among the first to congratulate her were Oldham’s Mayor, Councillor John Hudson, and Mayoress Kathleen Hudson.

Judith stepped down as the captain of 2nd Oldham Girls’ Brigade in 2012 after 39 years in charge. She set up the group at Union Street United Reformed Church in January 1973.

Of her award, presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Col Warren J Smith, Judith said: “I saw the letter from the House of Commons but didn’t open it straight away. When I did, I thought it was a joke. You’re not allowed to tell anyone about it. I had to live in secrecy for six weeks.”

Close friend Pauline Bowling nominated Judith for the award and also travelled from Scotland to support her. Judith was also joined by a former girls’ brigade member, Pauline Ireland - the first in the country to be awarded the Queen’s award.

Judith has also been invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace, attended by the Queen. Judith now works voluntarily as a lay preacher, and is also treasurer of Playhouse 2 in Shaw.