Mayor's Final Months: A Cultural and Community Celebration in Rochdale
As my mayoral year enters its final two months, the recent weeks have been exceptionally busy, with a strong focus on cultural activities and community engagement. Key events have included musical performances, religious festivals, poetry evenings, and sporting occasions, all highlighting the vibrant spirit of Rochdale.
Celebrating Ramadan and Community Unity
Residents across the community recently marked Ramadan, and I was honored to attend numerous Iftars. These included the Community Iftar organized by volunteers at Rochdale Town Hall, the council-organized Iftar at Number One Riverside, and community iftars at Kingsway Park and Kashmir Youth Project, among others. Each event was a special occasion, bringing people together to celebrate this important religious festival. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who invited me. Eid Mubarak to all who observed Eid on Friday, March 20.
Cultural Highlights and Youth Engagement
The cultural theme continued with an evening of young people’s poetry at The Yard in Darnhill, featuring contributions from Bethany Kilgallon. She delivered a poignant poem in memory of former soldiers, which was part of a special dedication service held in Langley. In February, a superb evening at the Flying Horse showcased music by the excellent Johnny Alfrey Music Memorial. This live music event served as a fundraiser for LGBTQ+ communities and the Mayor’s charities, celebrating love, music, and inclusivity.
Mayoral Duties and Community Events
As part of my duties, I enjoyed visits to Manchester, including the MACFEST opening at Whitworth Art Gallery with other Manchester Mayors, a trip to Chinatown to welcome the Chinese New Year of the Horse, and the turning of the leaves ceremony at Manchester Cathedral. This bi-weekly ceremony honors over 120,000 fallen service members from local regiments—a solemn reminder to never forget their sacrifices.
The month also featured a range of lovely events, such as afternoon tea with Lexie Partridge, winner of Rochdale Got Talent, a pantomime at St Gabriels in Castleton, the Rotary Middleton Community Stars awards, and the opening of Heywood Civic following its multi-million-pound revamp. International Women’s Day was marked with an evening at the Bridgewater Hall for the Hallé for Youth schools’ concert, led by fantastic female composers. Additionally, I had an engaging question and answer session with politics students at Rochdale Sixth Form College.
Honoring Unsung Heroes and Milestones
Foster carers like Michael and Marilyn are unsung heroes in our borough, and it was a great honor to welcome them to the Mayor’s Parlour to thank them for their years of fostering, which has benefited hundreds of children. Heywood Library celebrated its 120th anniversary, marking its opening in 1906 with library users and staff in attendance—a wonderful day to recognize its long service to the community.
Remembering Public Servants and Fallen Soldiers
The late Tony Lloyd, Rochdale’s former MP, is always in our thoughts, and it was lovely to attend the Tony Lloyd exhibition at the Pioneers Museum. Tony was a dedicated public servant of great integrity, and the exhibition does him proud. A poignant dedication service was held in Langley on Saturday, March 21, in memory of former soldiers Lee Rigby, Scott Hetherington, and Joel Halliwell. This moving service was attended by families, friends, community members, armed forces personnel, and councillors—lest we forget.
Charitable Initiatives and Future Work
Last but not least, I want to extend a huge and personal thanks to my dedicated charities and the outstanding work of the Mayor’s Charity Committee. Throughout the year, my mayoral efforts have raised funds for Springhill Hospice, Jolly Josh, Awakening Minds, Papyrus, Women’s Housing Action Group, and the Johnny Alfrey Musical Memorial. These organizations do amazing work, supported by wonderful teams of staff and volunteers.
Donations to my charities can be sent to: The Mayor’s Office, Rochdale Borough Council, Floor 2, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU. If any organization would like a visit, please ring 01706 924834, and my team will be happy to help. Further information on my charities and upcoming work can be found at rochdale.gov.uk/mayor.
