David Pauley starts bus station demolition

Nicole Pauley and David Pauley on board the high reach machine

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David Pauley, winner of the raffle held to find someone to start the demolition at the old bus station in Rochdale Town Centre, collected his prize today (Saturday 8 March).

David, who was one of around 600 people who entered the raffle, started the demolition of the old bus station.

David climbed on board the high reach machine before sounding the klaxon to mark the start of the demolition. Controls were then handed to the professionals who began to remove a chunk out of the side of the bus station.

David said: "I didn't think I would win but I am very proud to have won. It is a good prize and I am happy to help with anything that will improve the town centre."

David originally entered the raffle to simply help raise money for Springhill Hospice. He added: "I think the money was being raised for a good cause."

Also as part of his prize, David received a luxury hamper and champagne.

The raffle was organised by Rochdale Round Table and raised £1,000 for Springhill Hospice.

Danny Williams from Rochdale Round Table said: "We are really pleased with how the raffle went and today has been really good and everything has gone really well."

Council leader, Councillor Colin Lambert was also on site this morning and said: "Thank you to the Round Table and the organisers. Hopefully now we can pick up speed and start the transformation of the town centre"

The demolition of the old council offices and the bus station is happening as part of the town centre redevelopment plans. Once the demolition is complete, a temporary car park will be placed on site before developers move in.