Oldham leads quartet of councils helping those less fortunate

A local good cause won praise from four mayors, a deputy lord lieutenant, and the Assistant High Commissioner for Bangladesh, for raising funds for their borough – and beyond.

The Local Ramadan Project, whose team included a runner who completed 95km in a day, were honoured at an unprecedented gathering of first citizens at Oldham Council’s Chamber. 

Raising £2,000 for mayoral charities in Oldham, Tameside, Warrington and Chester, their breathless progress in attempting 100 miles exercise whilst fasting in the Holy Month, were described by Mohammad Jobayed Hosen (Bangladesh’s Assistant Chief Commissioner to the UK) as, “a beautiful idea.” 

The notion of raising cash for the four Mayoral charities was the brainchild of serial Oldham campaigner, Amin Babor Chowdhury.  

“In previous years we have been able to support those in need in our borough but the growing interest in what we are doing, has enabled us now to spread the kindness far and wide.  

“It is not just about money; awareness is just as important. By supporting the Mayor of Oldham’s charities we have, for example, highlighted the plight of young people struggling with issues such as homelessness.” 

Joining Councillor Eddie Moores at the event were the Mayor of Tameside Cllr Shibley Alam, and Cllr Mo Hussain, the Mayor of Warrington, plus the Lord Mayor of Chester Cllr Sherin Akhtar.  

The first ever Muslim female to wear the chain in Chester, the latter reminded guests that she was born in Oldham and added, “It is a privilege to be here – especially when I can recognise friends from the primary school I went to!  

“This is the first time another local authority has helped councils in this way, and I thank everyone for their contribution.” 

Each and every participant and contributor was saluted at the event, including restaurant owners, food, and retail outlets, and those who contribute to everything from caring for the local environment to helping people from Bangladeshi communities to settle in Britain. 

Oldham based Personal Home Care Services Ltd were just one of the businesses saluted for helping to raise readies for women’s refuges, hospices, and projects to offer young people positive activities. 

Amin added: “During the Holy Month, Muslims believe that Zakat and Sadaqah (forms of charity) are our sacred duties and that we must contribute to those in need in our communities.  

“This has been a perfect example of that, but the month is also a starting point, and it is my hope that more and more communities come together to do their bit in what are difficult times for many people across the world.”