The start of a new year often brings fleeting resolutions, but for three distinguished Rochdale residents, January 2026 has delivered a permanent and prestigious recognition of their lifelong contributions. The New Year Honours List, approved by King Charles, has shone a spotlight on the talent and dedication found within the borough, celebrating achievements in sport, education, and community service.
Rochdale's Honours Recipients: A Trio of Inspiration
The 2026 honours have recognised three individuals who embody the spirit of Rochdale. Keira Walsh, the Syke-born football star and England Lioness, has been awarded an MBE. Her journey from local pitches to international glory, supported tirelessly by her parents Tracey and Peter, stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the town.
In the field of education, Julia Heap, Principal of Hopwood Hall College, receives an OBE. She has been a formidable champion for further education, vocational training, and apprenticeships, consistently highlighting their power to unlock the potential of Rochdale's young people. Her leadership coincides with a major boost for the college: a £20 million investment from the Government's Community Regeneration Fund to rebuild the student building on the Rochdale campus, adding a new floor dedicated to higher education and access programmes.
Completing the trio is Ian Sandiford, a former Deputy Lieutenant, who receives the British Empire Medal (BEM). This award honours a decade of formal service and many more years of unwavering commitment to the borough and its charitable causes, a contribution celebrated by his community.
Long-Term Investment: The Key to Rochdale's Future
MP Paul Waugh draws a parallel between the sustained effort of the honours recipients and the type of investment needed to secure Rochdale's prosperity. He points to projects like the Ogden family's mid-season relay of the pitch at Rochdale Football Club as a critical long-term investment in local sport and community morale.
This theme of forward-looking commitment is echoed in significant new funding secured for the town. Ministers have agreed to an extra £74.5 million for Rochdale Council over the current Parliament, representing a 26 per cent increase compared to the previous funding settlement. This will raise core spending power per head from £1,248 to £1,540 by 2028/29.
This financial package is bolstered by several targeted investments, including:
- £20 million for the Community Regeneration Fund (supporting Hopwood Hall College).
- £20 million in 'Pride in Place' funding for Smallbridge and Hurstead.
- £330,000 for essential repairs to the roof of Hare Hill House.
Building a Fairer and Better Rochdale
The MP emphasised that while the new funding is substantial, it must be spent wisely to deliver tangible change. The stated mission for 2026 is to help cut the cost of living and rebuild the country through sustained investment. This includes ongoing work to improve the NHS, roads, railways, and the energy grid.
Plans for the town also focus on community foundations: more neighbourhood police officers, better apprenticeship schemes, free childcare, libraries in every school, and a coherent industrial strategy. The goal, as outlined, is to leverage both the recognition of local heroes and strategic financial investment to make Rochdale, and Britain, a fairer and more prosperous place for all its residents.
