Men of Rochdale attend 25th charity luncheon
THE borough’s men were honoured at an annual charity luncheon.
The Men of Rochdale gathered for their celebration - now in its 25th year - at Rochdale Town Hall on Friday November 23 to support Springhill Hospice.
Starting in 1994, the awards have seen the most dedicated and inspiring men from Rochdale celebrated for their inspiring work.
This year’s deserving winner was Mr John Frederick Kay. John has helped to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities, including Rochdale Connections Trust, a local charity set up 20 years ago to support young people and families facing difficulties, of which John is a founding trustee.
Numerous charities have benefitted from the fundraising work of the Rotary Club of Rochdale, with which John has been involved for many years.
John was presented with the plate bearing the names of all the previous winners of the award including last year’s Man of Rochdale, John Swinden.
John Swinden, known as ‘the singing jeweller’ said: “It was a terrific honour to win the award last year, I was so overcome.
“I have been attending the event for a few years and I don’t think that you could get a nicer setting. This year I also get a seat at the top table.”
Rochdale Mayor, Councillor Mohammed Zaman who supports Springhill Hospice as one of his charities said: “A number of people deserve to win the award and I would like to congratulate all of the nominees. Keep up the good work.”
This year’s award saw 35 local men nominated for the award.
Tony Lloyd, MP for Rochdale said: “Each of the nominees for the award have achieved wonderful things.
“Their voluntary work and commitment deserves to be celebrated. There is a lot of love and dedication making sure that Springhill Hospice is well-funded.”
The prestigious event held at Rochdale Town Hall saw over 250 guests enjoyed delicious fourcourse meal and were entertained by guest speaker, comedian Dave Spikey. All proceeds from the event go to Springhill Hospice.
Sophie Ansley, corporate and partnerships fundraiser from Springhill Hospice said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to John, such a deserving winner after so many years of wonderful work in his community.”