Minister digs in for groundwork

Digging deep: Phil Woolas MP proves his worth

MP Phil Woolas proved his worth when he dug deep to plant a tree after being announced as the first patron of Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale.

The Immigration Minister and Oldham East and Saddleworth MP has been a long-time supporter of the eco-charity, and on Friday he visited a number of Groundwork projects around Rochdale.

His tour took him to the Fulwood nature site in Sholver, where he rolled up his sleeves and picked up a spade to help plant some trees.

The task saw him join forces with pupils from Oldham Pupil Support Service and graduate volunteers from Groundwork’s V challenge programme.

Cliff Ellison, executive director for Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale, said: “As our first patron, Phil will act as a high-profile ambassador, promoting our values and championing our work in the local community.”