The Mayor news
Oldham Council has granted its highest honour to former Mayor Dr Zahid Chauhan, making him an Honorary Freeman of the Borough. The title, awarded on 23 December 2025, recognises Chauhan's years of public service and his record as the borough's first citizen during his mayoral term.
The same chamber later marked the loss of another former first citizen, Alan Griffiths, who died in January. Griffiths held the mayoral chain in 1996-97 and was remembered by councillors for his quiet dedication to local charities.
In a lighter moment earlier in January, 15-year-old Brooke Travis Newcombe was invited to tell his story to the current civic team. He spoke to Mayor Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Eddie Moores and Acting Chief Executive Shelley Kipling, though the council has not disclosed the theme of his address.
At a Glance
| Honour bestowed | Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Oldham |
|---|---|
| Award date | 23 December 2025 |
| Recipient | Councillor Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE |
| Deceased former mayor | Alan Griffiths (mayoral year 1996-97) |
| Youth speaker | Brooke Travis Newcombe, age 15 |
| Leaders present for youth address | Mayor Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Moores, Acting CE Kipling |
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