It is two months since Shahid Mohammed became Mayor of Rochdale, and he has already visited hundreds of charities, schools, businesses, and events across Heywood, Middleton, Pennines, and Rochdale. Alongside his wife, Mayoress Iram Faisal, Mohammed has been humbled by the generosity and kindness of people across the borough, describing it as a truly inspiring start to the mayoral year.
International Visitors and Twin Town Relations
In a bid to showcase the borough to national and international audiences, the Mayor’s Parlour has welcomed several distinguished guests, including the Consulate General of China, the Consulate General of Italy, and the Consulate General of Spain. The Assistant High Commissioner of Bangladesh also visited. These guests were particularly impressed by the Grade 1 listed Rochdale Town Hall.
Mohammed also welcomed the Friends of Tourcoing, marking the long-standing twinning with the French city since 1956. The visit included afternoon tea and a trip down memory lane, toasting many more years of friendship.
Community Engagement and Diversity
True to his commitment to visit all parts of the borough, Mohammed attended events across all townships, including Love Littleborough, Heywood Community Fun Day, MiddFest, and Rochdale Pride. He noted the importance of these events in showcasing the borough’s diversity and inclusivity.
As a former veteran of the Pakistan Navy, Mohammed has a strong connection with the local Armed Forces community. He has attended Armed Forces Day flag raisings at Rochdale Town Hall and Middleton Memorial Gardens, the Minden Day flag raising, and regular visits to the Armed Forces Breakfast Club, one of his mayoral charities.
Recognizing Local Heroes and Supporting Charities
Mohammed awarded a special mayoral certificate to Wing Commander David Forbes, who has served as president of the Rochdale branch of the Royal British Legion and has been instrumental in local initiatives, including the breakfast club.
Other recent engagements include a summer garden celebration at Springhill Hospice, which cares for patients with life-limiting conditions, and the council’s White Ribbon football tournament at Heywood Sports Village, promoting the message to never use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women. He also attended a summer garden party at Half Acre House Care Home in Rochdale.
Throughout the year, Mohammed and the Mayoress hope to raise funds for their charities. Donations can be sent to The Mayor’s Office, Rochdale Borough Council, Floor 2, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU. Organizations seeking a visit can call 01706 924834.
