Steve Lister receives a royal invite

Steve Lister, Chairman of LEAF

Steve Lister is being recognised for his community work by being invited to a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace next week.

Steve, a retired teacher from Littleborough, was surprised to receive the invitation but delighted to learn it was in recognition of his work for the community in Littleborough. An active member of Littleborough Lions Club since 2002, Steve is also founder and chairman of the Littleborough Events and Associations Forum (LEAF) which was formed in 2009 to promote the social and cultural life of Littleborough.

Steve says "It was my idea to get local groups and individuals to work together for the benefit of our community and we have been successful beyond my wildest dreams.

"We started by helping with the rushcart event, subsequently taking over the organisation completely, and added the party in the park, monthly farmer's markets and craft fair and the Christmas lights switch-on.

"I am particularly proud of our latest initiative, the highly successful and popular Oakenhoof and The Black Nan Band, a traditional music and dance group who have already performed on TV and at the Feel Good Festival.

"This invitation was a surprise and I am thrilled to go to represent all the members of LEAF and people of Littleborough who have supported our efforts, without whom my ideas would have come to nothing."