Annual Event 2016
Over 100 people, including community group members and local volunteers from Irlam, Cadishead and Rixton-with-Glazebrook gathered with us to celebrate the achievements delivered across the area over the last 12 months; and to look forward to the exciting year ahead.
The event, held at the Black Swan in Hollins Green on 15th June, gave us an opportunity to congratulate the community organisations, groups and residents who have worked tirelessly and passionately both independently and with us, to improve the area.
Guests were greeted with a glass of bubbles before being treated to entertainment from Wayne Farrow, as well as some scrumptious food.
The event kicked off with Warren Dodd who spoke about the incredible development of Irlam FC over the years and the blood, sweat and tears that got the club to where it is today. He also covered the clubs’ relationship with HDT and how we have supported numerous projects ranging from helping to erect the floodlights some years ago to more recently match-funding the build of the new clubhouse. Very passionate in his delivery, Warren has been instrumental in the progress made both on and off the pitch over the years and is a credit to Irlam FC and grass roots football.
Our Chairman, Neil McArthur spoke of the years’ achievements and the priorities for 2016/17 and this was followed by an Awards Ceremony presented by our General Manager Mandy Coleman to thank and recognise some of the wonderful local people who sacrifice and deliver so much for the area. 
“I had a really lovely time at the annual celebration – I had a lovely time chatting to everyone and meeting other members of the community. I also enjoyed seeing Billy and Otto receive their well-deserved awards!!” Dawn Ridyard, Headteacher – St Joseph the Worker Primary School
Over the past 12 months, we are proud to have provided support in excess of £1.2m to the local community. Our biggest achievement of the year was getting our urban art programme off the ground and opening the new art centre on Liverpool Road. There have been a number of large I C Art pieces completed this year by Rachelle Cleary – Irlam and Cadishead’s answer to Banksy! Why not take a look at Bridging the Gap and Introducing the Cadwallas.
“I’m very grateful to HDT for giving me the opportunity to work on such an exciting project. I’m absolutely loving it and wake up excited to go in every day. It’s not just about the painting, it’s the people I am meeting along the way, sharing their enthusiasm, knowledge and stories about the district and creating artworks from this that will enhance the great area we live in!” Rachelle Cleary, Local Artist
Another massive plus for the year was the development of our volunteer programme, with more than 100 people now on board to participate in numerous projects across the area. We want to deliver as much as we can to the district and with such a small team we realise we can’t do that alone – volunteers are vital. If you have some spare time on your hands or would like to get involved in our next project, please visit our volunteer section or give us a call on 0161 222 4003.
“What a thoroughly great event I really enjoyed listening to all the great achievements within the neighbourhoods by some fantastic people. I got to catch up and meet some new people which was really beneficial and will help in working with the residents of Irlam and Cadishead. I was really pleased to hear that there is to be development with the Cadishead Rec, granted not until next year but still brilliant news!” Amanda Coles, City West Housing – Neighbourhood Officer
The event also launched our 2015 / 16 annual report. Why not download a copy today!?
Posted on: 20th June 2016