Making a difference!

Our annual Community Star Awards highlight and recognise the wonderful local people and groups that are passionate and committed to enhancing the area and making a difference.

We were delighted to host our 5th awards ceremony this week at our annual event, with our stars applauded by around 100 people.

Congratulations to all the worthy winners who are listed below:

Pete Thomas and Neil Drum were recognised for their commitment to researching, honouring and preserving the memory of the men from the local area who lost their lives serving their country in the First and Second World Wars. Pete and Neil, who co-wrote the two wonderful war books, have also been involved in many related activities including: delivering local war displays and talks, supporting the Poppy Appeal and the Shine the Light project to permanently light up the war memorial. Their moving tribute at the 100 year Commemoration evening was particularly special.

Maurice Cullen was recognised for his passion for the area, and his interest, commitment and long-term contribution to sharing local news, community events and history on his Irlam & Cadishead ‘Now & Then’ Facebook page. Maurice has also complemented HDT’s  social media activity, in addition to volunteering at iTea and Biscuits, and supporting the Irlam and Cadishead History Society.

An award was presented to Alan Lane to recognise the commitment and enthusiasm that both him and his team of merry men at Lanes Landscapes have shown in helping to transform the station embankment into the wonderful landscape that is now Station Park. The passion shown for the project and the creative ideas were appreciated and valued. Alan and the lads went above and beyond, and the result exceeded our expectations. The love the district has for this new green space and the amount the park is used is testament to all their hard work.

John Leather’s award recognised his commitment and time given to volunteering for the benefit of the district. With his support as an active member of the Irlam and Cadishead Poppy Committee since it commenced in May 2016 and the practical help he gives so willingly, is admirable and invaluable. Plus, the volunteer time he has given to support our I C ART programme, Rachelle Cleary in particular, was also welcomed and valued.

The award to Irlam and Cadishead Academy was our way of thanking the various departments throughout the school for the support they have shown to HDT in the past twelve months. Firstly, the unique community trophy, designed and created by the technical department, was well received by the worthy recipients of the Irlam & Cadishead Times Awards. Then, their support for the ‘Man on the Bench’ fundraising appeal: participating in the video; producing calendars and Valentines cards; running events; and selling raffle tickets, which has been invaluable to the campaign. In addition, their help and participation in the Christmas Community Concert for the past 3 years, which brings good cheer and a fabulous festive ending to each year to the 250 guests in attendance.

A special award was presented to Ruth Stocks on behalf of the Chris Stocks fund, which was set up by her husband Chris before he passed away. The fund helps young people in Irlam and Cadishead progress in a hands-on trade and provides financial support towards an apprenticeship, a practical based course, equipment, etc in their chosen profession. To date 23 young people, plus 2 youth-based organisations, have benefited from the fund and are overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness of Chris’s gift and the help this brings.

Pete Thomas said: “This is very kind and so humbling to receive such a lovely award. It means a lot to both of us.”

Posted on: 14th June 2019