The Spirit of Saddleworth Awards, launched by Saddleworth Parish Council, honoured 11 individuals and five community groups at the Civic Hall on March 19, 2026. Recipients included Carol Oldham for supporting independent businesses, Erica Ryan for 12 years with Scouts, Dr Eamon O'Daly for dementia support work, and Jennifer Greenwood for Lydgate community projects. Other honourees were Kye Steadman for youth projects, Katie Hodson as PTA head, William Smith for 20 years with Delph Allotment Society, Nicola Brown for recovery community work, Karen Jakeman for multiple Saddleworth initiatives, Tracy Buckley for securing £16,000 for Diggle School's Trim Trail, and Christopher Bannatyne for volunteer set building. Community groups recognised included Moorgate Campaign Group, Saddleworth Parish Council Chairman's Charity, Street Scene Greenfield, Dobcross Village Store, and Scouthead &...
Hafsa Batan from Oldham has been named First Choice Homes' February Hidden Hero for her work supporting young people through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme delivered by the Yuvanis Foundation in Chadderton. Mrs Batan, who has volunteered with the foundation for two years, was nominated by chief executive Zakir Ahmad for her outstanding contribution as a trusted role model. She recently supported a residential trip to Castleshaw for young girls and received the award from FCHO project officer Ghazalla Iqbal along with a £50 shopping voucher. The HAF programme provides free food and activities for children receiving benefits-related free school meals during school holidays.
Hafsa Batan from Oldham has been named First Choice Homes' February Hidden Hero for her volunteer work supporting young people through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme delivered by the Yuvanis Foundation in Chadderton. Nominated by Yuvanis Foundation chief executive Zakir Ahmad, Mrs Batan has volunteered for two years and recently supported a residential trip to Castleshaw for young girls. She received the award from FCHO project and partnerships officer Ghazalla Iqbal along with a £50 shopping voucher. The HAF programme provides free food and activities for children receiving benefits-related free school meals during school holidays.
Oldham Council leaders joined Outta Skool's 17th anniversary celebration at its ninth annual awards ceremony. The event recognised young people from Taekwondo, Boxing, Muay Thai, Football, Kabaddi and Dance clubs for their sporting achievements, personal development, leadership and dedication. Adults who completed the 12-week Let's Get Active programme were also honoured. Council Leader Arooj Shah, Mohammed Nazrul Islam and Shaid Mushtaq presented awards and spoke with attendees. Murad Chowdhury, Outta Skool Director, praised participants' determination and commitment.