Village champion receives a BEM

A woman recognised for putting a tiny Saddleworth hamlet back on the map has been presented with a British Empire Medal.

Jennifer Greenwood, from Lydgate, was one of five recipients of the honour from Warren Smith, Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, at Gorton Monastery.

As chair and secretary of Love Lydgate, a community group, she encouraged community pride and involvement by introducing a wide range of projects and activities. 

The Lord Lieutenant said: “Today’s recipients are true representatives of those who dedicate themselves to the communities within which they work and live.”

Jennifer was joined at the ceremony by Oldham’s deputy Mayor, Cllr Jenny Harrison, and friends and neighbours from Lydgate.

Speaking later, Jennifer said: “It was a wonderful experience, and, as there was only five award recipients, we were allowed to take more guests than usual. 

“It was lovely to be able to take people from the village who have all contributed so much as well as my husband and son. I only wish I could have taken everyone!

“It was so nice of Cllr Harrison to attend too. We will be inviting her to the village as our special guest. 

“The venue itself was amazing and a wonderful backdrop to a really exciting day.”

Jennifer joins two other Saddleworth-based BEM winners. 

Margaret Hardy is a veteran fundraiser from Diggle who raised thousands of pounds for cancer charities. 

Richelle Walsh is a customer care assistant at Greenfield station who received the award for services to the rail industry and the community of Oldham.

Main image:

SPECIAL RECOGNITION: Jennifer Greenwood (centre) with her husband Chris (left) and Oldham’s deputy mayor, Cllr Jenny Harrison, at the BEM ceremony.