First Choice Homes Oldham announces September Hidden Hero

A volunteer who spends every Friday litter picking to keep Royton Linear Park tidy is First Choice Homes Oldham’s (FCHO) September Hidden Hero.

Kate Ridings is out all year-round filling bags with rubbish - helped by her mum Pat - and both ask for nothing in return for their hard work. 

The 35-year-old from Royton, who lives with Down syndrome, was nominated for the award by chair of the friends of the park Amanda Cawdron. FCHO has worked with Royton Linear Park for a number of years to improve the local community. 

Mrs Cawdron explained: “For more than five years, Kate has dedicated her time to keeping the area clean, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone who uses it. 

“Through her consistent efforts, kindness and community spirit, she makes Royton a better place for others every single week. She is an inspiration to those around her and a wonderful example of how one person’s actions can have a positive impact on an entire community.” 

She added: “Kate’s kindness also extends far beyond her litter-picking activities. She spends her time crafting small keepsakes, which she carefully places in trees and bushes around the community for people to discover and take home. 

“For her dedication, generosity and unwavering commitment to helping others, Kate is a truly deserving recipient of a Hidden Hero Award.” 

Receiving her certificate and a £50 shopping voucher from FCHO neighbourhood co-ordinator for Royton South Nazia Ahmed, Mrs Ridings said she was very happy and proud to become a Hidden Hero. 

Her Mum said: “I am so proud of Kate for her efforts. Kate doesn’t get a lot of recognition, so it was such a lovely surprise for her to receive her nomination. 

“Kate gets so much from volunteering with the group – we both do – and she loves giving back to her local community, so it feels really special.”