Rochdale Man of the Year – Garry Whitworth

Rochdale Man of the Year 2010 - Garry Whitworth

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A Rochdale fundraiser who has dedicated endless hours to helping worthy causes has been named Rochdale Man of the Year 2010.

Garry Whitworth was named the Rochdale Man of the Year at a prestigious luncheon held at the Rochdale Town Hall today (Friday 26 November 2010).

The luncheon, now in its 17th year, was once again attended by many men from the borough of Rochdale.

Mr Whitworth has been nominated for the Man of Year award several times in the past but was still shocked to receive the award. On announcing he was the winner, Chairman of the Men of Rochdale Committee, Councillor Robert Clegg, said: “This year’s winner is a worthy winner.”

Speaking to Rochdale Online, Mr Whitworth, said: “It is a total surprise. I am surprised, shocked and elated. I have been nominated in the past but I never expected it.”

Mr Whitworth has raised funds for many worthy causes over the years including the Booth Hall Children’s Hospital, The Christie, Breast Cancer Care and Springhill Hospice.

However, Mr Whitworth is best known for his work with the GEM Appeal.

In fact, he almost didn’t attend the lunch because of preparations for a GEM Appeal event taking place tomorrow. Thankfully, with the help of other attendees at the dinner Mr Whitworth was there to collect the Man of the Year plate.

Mr Whitworth accepted the plate from 2009 Rochdale Man of the Year, Roman Paraszczak.

Before returning to his seat to enjoy the rest of the afternoon Mr Whitworth thanked the Men of Rochdale Committee and praised the GEM appeal for all their hard work.