Doreen Stott - Rochdale Woman of the Year 2013

Photo: Howard Wilkinson Photography

Doreen Stott - Rochdale Woman of the Year 2013

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The tireless charitable work of a Rochdale woman was today (Friday 26 April) rewarded at the Springhill Hospice Women of Rochdale Luncheon.

Doreen Stott, Norden, was awarded the prestigious title of Rochdale Woman of the Year in light of her continued hard work for Parkinson’s UK Rochdale and the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

Doreen, who previously volunteered in the Cancer Charity shop, has served as Chairwoman of the Parkinson’s UK Group Rochdale for 17 years.

Upon receiving the award at the luncheon, in Rochdale Town Hall, a shocked Doreen said: “I don’t know what to say, I don’t know why I’m here!

“I’m so surprised and I hope I do as well as last year’s winner.”

Doreen follows 2012 winner Carol Hartley, of Heywood, a long-term fundraiser for disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, and becomes the 21st recipient of the prestigious rose bowl.

Nominees are shortlisted before the ‘Woman of the Year’ committee makes the final decision on the winner.

All the nominees were announced by Angela Coric, Chairwoman of the Women of Rochdale Committee. The winner was announced by the Mayoress of Rochdale Cllr Jane Gartside.

Those who nominated Doreen were keen to highlight her efforts in raising the profile of Parkinson’s UK, as well as her commitment to the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

One nominee said: “Her commitment and drive to help others is truly amazing.

“She is constantly looking at ways and means to raise money and help Parkinson’s sufferers.

“Doreen has a knack of making sure people’s needs are met, whether it’s sending flowers for a birthday or organising Tai Chi to help people struggling with their movement.”

Another wrote: “Doreen is a selfless person in the true sense of the word.

“This is not just a ‘flash in the pan’ – she has been doing this since 1997 and ought to be recognised for the countless number of hours she has put in for the benefit of other people.”

Another of Doreen’s nominations was turned into a rhyme.

“What can I say about Doreen Stott? Except she is special, kind-hearted and helps other people a lot,” it read.

The rhyme ended: “Three cheers for Doreen Stott - hip hip hip hip hooray. I think she should be the Woman of the Year - that’s all I’ve got to say.”

The Women of Rochdale luncheon is held annually to support Springhill Hospice and celebrate the Woman of the Year.

Rochdale-born MC Alan Calow hosted the luncheon and renowned after-dinner speaker Gay Rhodes also spoke at this year’s event, which was held in the Great Hall at Rochdale Town Hall.

Barclays Bank sponsored the event.