Celebrations in memory of Olympic gold medallist, Sybil 'Queenie' Fenton Newall

Sybil Fenton Newall commemoration event

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Celebrations were held at Hare Hill Park on Saturday to commemorate the life of Littleborough’s Olympic gold medallist, Sybil 'Queenie' Fenton Newall.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, Ray and Elaine Dutton, unveiled a commemorative plaque in Queenie’s name, on the wall of Hare Hill House, where she was born in 1854.

Sybil Fenton Newall won the gold for archery in the 1908 Olympics when she was 53 years and 275 days old, making her the oldest woman in any sport to win an Olympic medal of any sort – a record she still holds.

She followed this by becoming national archery champion in 1911, 1912 and 1914.

The event was attended by the Rochdale Company of Archers, Littleborough Lions Club and the Friends of Hare Hill House, who helped host 'Silly Olympics' for the children including bag races.

Addressing the crowd, Mayor of Rochdale Ray Dutton said: “Sybil Fenton Newall – she was one of a number of Olympians from the borough of Rochdale, yet only a few have won a gold medal.

“Sport and sporting achievement is an important part of community life here in Rochdale and we are blessed with opportunities to both participate and support many clubs and groups.

“I am delighted to be here today to celebrate one of Littleborough’s sporting heroes and one who still holds the record for being the oldest female gold medallist ever, that is, assuming no older female wins a gold medal at the current Rio Olympics.

“She has been a record holder for over 108 years and 23 Olympic Games.

“We are here today to recognise and honour this achievement.”

Rebecca Stephenson played the part of Queenie Newall, in authentic period costume which was supplied by Royal Exchange Theatre Costume Hire.

Rebecca is a rising star of Rochdale Company of Archers, she demonstrated authentic 1908 archery as Queenie in authentic period costume.