Rochdale mum crowned local hero for tireless lifetime of caring for son

Gillian Gilder and her family enjoyed a festive day on the East Lancashire Railway

A Rochdale woman who has spent the last 34 years as a full-time carer for her son has been crowned a local hero by The East Lancashire Railway.

Gillian Gilder was named a local hero for her tireless lifetime of caring for her 45-year-old son who suffered a severe brain injury in a car accident when he was eleven.

As a token of appreciation for their selfless efforts Gillian and three other named local heroes from the North West were invited to enjoy a special visit to the heritage railway’s acclaimed Santa Specials for an unforgettable festive day out on Wednesday 21 December.

Gillian, 65, was joined by her husband, 69, her son, 45, her daughter, 29 and her two-year-old grandson.

Gillian was nominated by her daughter and found out she had won the trip last week.

She said: “We’ve had a really bad year as a family; you name it, we’ve had it, and we’re such a close family. “My brother died in August and we’ve had a lot of illnesses with covid and flu.

“This has really lightened our year and made our Christmas, and it was such a nice surprise to do as a close-knit family. My grandson loved seeing Father Christmas, but the Baileys was also a favourite!

“Seeing the staff and the elves coming round all jolly and singing carols really got us into the Christmas spirit.”

The magical event has become an essential part of Christmas for many families in the North West, and this year it has been bigger and better than ever, with visitors enjoying an extended winter wonderland at Bury Bolton Street Station alongside a host of other magical treats.

The local heroes were chosen by ELR staff and volunteers after the public were invited to nominate their choices.

Mike Kelly, chairman at ELR, added: “Discovering such moving and inspirational stories and achievements of our Local Heroes has been incredibly rewarding and humbling.

“Christmas is a time of giving and our unsung heroes exemplify the very best of unselfish community spirit in the North West and we’re delighted to celebrate and spoil them.”