Celebrating young people’s achievements

Young person of the year, Rebecca Ashwell, with the Mayor and Cheryl Eastwood, Executive Director for Children, Schools and Families at Rochdale Borough Council.

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The outstanding work and achievements of young people have been celebrated at the borough’s first Mayor’s youth awards.

Over 70 awards were presented to youngsters, aged 13-24 years, following nominations by Rochdale Borough Council’s youth service and other partner organisations.

A special award, ‘Young Person of the Year,’ was presented to Rebecca Ashwell, 16.

Ms Ashwell has had a very difficult year caring for her mother with a serious illness, but has remained focused and committed to her education and as school prefect, continues to help and support others. Ms Ashwell received the award after being nominated by other young people from across the borough for her achievements.

Cheryl Eastwood, Executive Director for Children, School and Families at Rochdale Borough Council said: “This is the first event for the borough where we’ve been able to recognise the positive contributions young people are making in their community. I would like to congratulate all the young people for their individual successes and thank everyone involved in supporting them.”

On the night, there were performances by The Skylight Circus, as well as speeches by Jack Lofthouse, Member of the Youth Parliament, the Mayor, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali; Cheryl Eastwood, Executive Director for Children, Schools and Families and Ed Kelly, Principal Youth Worker.

Several young people also presented funds raised from events in their areas for the Mayor’s chosen charities; Shop Mobility and Parkinson’s disease.

Sandra Bowness, Service Director for Learners and Young People at Rochdale Borough Council said: “There are many young people doing some fantastic work across the borough and it was wonderful to be able to celebrate their achievements. Congratulations to all and well done to the young people who organised this event.”