COMMUNITY CHAMPION Barbara Beeley will pass on the baton to a new District Partnership chair in May after six years in the role.
Cllr Beeley, a councillor for Saddleworth West and Lees, first took on the position in 2008, just before the body became a District Partnership, and has helped it evolve over the years.
But now as she comes to the end of her current four-year term as a councillor, she has decided not to stand for re-election and also pass on her District Partnership role.
Reflecting on her time in the position, Cllr Beeley said: “Working with and in the communities to help local groups to improve facilities, enhance the appearance of and generate pride in our area has been one of the most rewarding parts of my term of office.
“Planters and hanging baskets, Christmas trees, fun days, business and community events have all helped to foster a sense of community and identity.
“Saving local events such as the Whit Friday Band contest and the Saddleworth Olympics has been possible because of the support of the members of the Partnership and other local organisations.
“Cooperation between organisations has also led to such projects as the Uppermill allotments and Men in Sheds.
“Churchill Playing Fields is obviously the largest project we took on and once the establishment period is complete and the tennis courts are re-furbished it should be a tremendous multi sport facility for the area.
“A tremendous thank you should go to the District team who never flinched when I came up with crazy ideas, such as having a stall on the Uppermill market to hand out information leaflets about free insulation, even though it was well below freezing!”
As Cllr Beeley’s reign draws to a close, other local councillors and community groups have praised her hard work and efforts over the years.
OMBC Cllr John McCann, addressing the District Partnership, said her driving force has ensured “Churchill Playing Fields is a recreational and sporting hub for Saddleworth and Lees.
He added: “She has developed a closer partnership with the Parish Council and has always been supportive of the youth centre and with children, young people and the Saddleworth Olympics.
“She worked to build relationships with community groups and get Love Lydgate off the ground and establish the annual Scouthead and Austerlands Dawson’s Field fun day.”
Garth Harkness, OMBC and Saddleworth Parish Councillor, added: “Barbara showed me the ropes and provide me with excellent guidance – and still does!
“I think community champion sums up Barbara well. She fights for her patch and is passionate about the community and their involvement.
“Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership has community involvement and collaborative working and this is because of Barbara’s leadership.”
And chair of Love Lydgate Jenny Greenwood praised Cllr Beeley for her help and advice when their community association launched five years ago.
She said: “We were real rookies, not knowing who did what in the council or who we should approach for advice and direction – what a relief then to meet Barbara.
“Her enthusiasm for community projects, her knowledge and sheer determination to get things done were a god send.
“Totally reliable and with a sense of responsibility, she goes way beyond the call of duty. She has joined in with many of our projects and events and it has always been a pleasure to have her around.
“People like Barbara, and there aren’t so many, restore much needed faith in politicians. We hope she continues to be part of our community while enjoying a well-earned retirement.”
ENDS
You must be logged in to post a comment.