Organist Alan Wilson’s town hall invitation hits the right note

Alan Wilson from Rochdale is presented with his invitation to the Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration by the Mayor and Mayoress

Rochdale organist Alan Wilson received an extra special surprise this week – an invitation to the Queen’s 90th birthday celebration event being staged by the council at Rochdale Town Hall this summer.

Earlier this year residents were asked by the council to put forward local heroes who make a difference in the community that they thought should be invited to the right royal celebration in Rochdale to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday on Sunday 12 June.

Mr Wilson, who has volunteered for more than 11 years as a tour guide and organist at Rochdale town hall, is one of 175 residents who are due to receive an invitation this month. He was surprised by the Mayor and Mayoress who presented him with his invitation in person.

Aside from his town hall duties, Mr Wilson, who celebrates his own 90th birthday next year, also plays the organ at churches across the borough and said it was an honour to be invited: “I did wonder what was going on when I got the message saying the Mayor and Mayoress wanted to see me.

"It is a real pleasure to play the magnificent town hall organ and I love telling visitors all about our wonderful town hall. I am very pleased and little shocked to have been invited, it will be an honour to attend the Queen’s birthday celebration here in Rochdale.”

With Mr Wilson approaching 90 he said he knows the secrets of a long and happy life: “Regular exercise and a good diet with no junk food. I keep fit and walk every day, and playing the organ is great for the body and mind.”

The Mayor, Councillor Surinder Biant, said the event will be a chance to recognise residents who do so much in their community: “We want to recognise all these extraordinary achievements of ordinary people, who put in hours of hard work, day in, day out to help others. We had a fabulous response when we asked for nominations and read some really wonderful stories. We are all looking forward to the big day when those who were nominated join us at the town hall for afternoon tea.”

The Mayor will host the event on Sunday 12 June, and guests will be entertained with performances by local artists and groups.