Sheriff honours lockdown hero
A CAMPAIGNING councillor has received an award from the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester recognising his voluntary work during the coronavirus outbreak.
Coun Faisal Rana was presented with a Special Recognition Award for his ‘outstanding activity and contribution to the community.’
Since the start of lockdown, the Spotland and Falinge representative has handed out hot meals and Easter eggs to frontline and emergency workers, donated PPE to care homes, and supported vulnerable constituents with shopping, collecting prescriptions and helping with transport to medical appointments.
He also lent his support to the Positive Cycles campaign run by borough charity Positive Steps, which has collected and renovated more than 100 unused bicycles before donating them to local nurses, and teamed up with Shell to offer free sandwiches to NHS staff at the petrol stations and retail outlets that he owns.
Coun Rana said: “The award was completely unexpected and a wonderful surprise. I’m just happy to do my bit – like thousands of others – and help people in need and support our wonderful NHS and carers.
“To be able to give something back to the community and to Rochdale is really ample reward in itself.
“The award came completely out of the blue, but was a very nice way to end National Volunteer Week.”
High Sheriff Dr Eamonn O’Neal said: “The award recognises the appreciation of the people of Greater Manchester for the altruistic acts of thoughtfulness and kindness during the C-19 pandemic.”