Former Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE, has become the first Asian person to receive the borough’s highest civic honour.
The title of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Oldham – awarded to just 28 people in Oldham’s history – recognises Dr Chauhan’s long-standing contribution to public life, healthcare and community leadership.
The official ceremony took place recently in the council chamber, attended by the current Mayor of Oldham Councillor Eddie Moores, Deputy Mayor Councillor Brian Hobin, Oldham Council Chief Executive Shelley Kipling, and Monitoring Officer Alex Bougatef.
Dr Chauhan has represented the Alexandra ward since 2013 and served as Mayor of Oldham from 2023 to 2025. Alongside his political career, he continues to work as a local GP, a dual role that has shaped much of his public service.
He played a key leadership role during Oldham’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, working across health and social care, and is widely recognised for his work supporting people experiencing homelessness. In 2017, he founded Homeless Friendly, a nationally recognised initiative helping GP practices support vulnerable patients without fixed addresses.
Speaking after the ceremony, Councillor Dr Chauhan said: “To receive this honour from a place I have dedicated so much of my life to is a moment of great pride. Oldham has shaped both my personal and professional journey, and to be appointed Honorary Freeman by the borough I have served for many years means a great deal.
“Being the first Asian person to receive this honour in Oldham makes this milestone even more meaningful. It reflects the borough’s commitment to inclusion, service and opportunity, and I am proud to share this recognition with the communities I serve.”
Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Eddie Moores, said the appointment reflected both service and values.
“Dr Zahid Chauhan’s appointment as an Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Oldham is richly deserved. His long-standing commitment to public service, healthcare leadership and social justice has had a lasting impact on our borough and its communities,” he explained.
“This honour recognises not only his exceptional contribution to Oldham, but also the values of compassion, fairness and dedication that he has consistently demonstrated in service to residents.”
Honorary Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour Oldham Council can bestow, reserved for individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the life of the borough.
You must be logged in to post a comment.