John Whyman - Man of Rochdale 2013

John Whyman - Man of Rochdale 2013

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John Whyman was named Man of Rochdale today (Friday 29 November) at a luncheon held in aid of Springhill Hospice.

John, who beat off 38 nominations to receive the award, said he was “in total shock at winning”. He said: “I think I am in a dream. It has come as a big shock.”

John, 88, retired 25 years ago but works as a volunteer therapist at Springhill Hospice, Dr Kershaw's Hospice and Birch Hill teaching people how to paint using watercolours.

John received four nominations for the award, with one of the nominees suggesting he receive an MBE and an OBE.

Paddy Dobbin, who attended the lunch with John, said: “I have attended a few of these events and you could really see how much this meant to him.”

John now hopes that the work he does lives on even when he is not around.

“The important thing to me is that this carries on when I am not here. It has to carry on,” said John.

Last year’s winner, Norman Wellens, who presented John with his award, had positive words for this year’s winner. He said: “Enjoy it. It is what it is all about.”

As well as the Men of Rochdale, in attendance at the lunch were Mayor of Rochdale Peter Rush, local councillors, Middleton and Heywood MP Jim Dobbin and staff from Springhill Hospice.

Mayor Rush said: “It has been a first class event with first class food and plenty of camaraderie. I have seen lots of people which has brought back many good memories. It is a fantastic event for a fantastic charity and many congratulations to the winner.”

Today’s event celebrated 20 years of the Man of Rochdale award as well as 25 years of the hospice being in operation.