Much-loved Oldham headteacher passes away

A much-loved Oldham headteacher has sadly passed away, aged 92.

Mavis Clegg was headteacher at Eustace Street School and Glodwick Infants School in the Seventies and Eighties, earning the admiration of pupils, staff, and the wider community. 

Proudly "Oldham through and through," she never considered working "in the leafy suburbs" saying "I belong here." One of the greatest joys of her career was listening to children read. 

Many of her staff went on to become headteachers and deputy heads themselves - inspired by her guidance and dedication. 

The former pupil of Clarksfield School and Hulme Grammar School for Girls wanted to be a teacher from an early age and trained to be a teacher in Scarborough.  

Her career began at Alt Primary School, Alexandra Infants School, and Fitton Hill Infants School. 

Beyond the classroom, Mavis ran the Christ Church Glodwick youth club with her husband Brian, served as Chair of Governors at Hey with Zion and later Littlemoor School, and she volunteered at the Royal Oldham Hospital.  

She also loved gardening and spending time with friends in the Hey Ladies' Society. 

She was an avid Oldham Athletic supporter (pictured below with Chairman Frank Rothwell and Sharon Richardson, formerly of Lord Street Hair) and travelled down to Wembley twice to cheer them on. 

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "Mavis Clegg dedicated her life to helping Oldham’s children thrive.  

“She led with compassion, strength and unwavering belief in the potential of every child. Her influence was also seen in the many educators who followed in her footsteps. 

"Mavis, and her long-standing commitment to Oldham’s young people, represents many of the qualities we value most in our community. Her influence will be remembered by many and will continue to be felt for years to come."