Henry West Building opened at Hopwood Hall

Mayor Cllr Jean Hornby with Henry West and Consort Barrie Hornby

On Friday 26 May, College Governor Henry West officially opened the building named in his honour at Hopwood Hall College, Middleton Campus. The ceremony was attended by the new Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Jean Hornby, accompanied by her husband as consort Barrie Hornby, MP Paul Rowen, Principal Derek O'Toole, ex-Principal Michele Sutton, College Governors, staff and students.

Madam Mayor, Derek O'Toole and Governor David Bartlett addressed the audience and spoke about how Henry's dedication and service to the young people of Middleton has benefited so many. 

After working in Further Education for the past 25 years, Henry reflected on how: “High standards in the delivery of teaching and learning, coupled with measured and appropriate support, ensured that the final value added achievements of all, represent not just exceptional but brilliant performances.” He added: “I am additionally proud on behalf of the people of Middleton that this wonderful new building, together with the other fabulous developments and enhancements that have already taken place on this site, is in our town of Middleton. I am sure Hopwood Hall College with its new facilities will be an inspiration to and raise the aspirations of both current and future generations of our young people.”

Speaking in her first week of official engagements as Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Jean Hornby said: “I was born in Middleton and understand the pride and pleasure in seeing the plans for Hopwood Hall College come to fruition.”  

Henry was presented with a gift by Pre Uniform Services student Mary Gray to mark the occasion. Madam Mayor was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Pre-Uniformed Services student Claire Docherty to show the college's support and best wishes for her year ahead as Mayor.

The Henry West building has become the heart of the Middleton campus and includes new facilities such as state of the art classrooms, computer suites, reception area, bistro, canteen, student services and a Learning Resource Centre.