History of Austerlands and Scouthead: A Saddleworth Local History

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OVER moorland polished by bright sunshine, they came in their hundreds to pay tribute at one of Britain’s most uniquememorials to those lost in conflict. She said: “I feel humble to have become the Mayor and I hope in my year of office to raise funds for charities.” Past Mayors with new Mayor Joan Sykes He took on the daunting task of reading through all the documents then moving forward, taking the lead throughout. Wreaths were also placed by Stuart Cook, the Mayor of Austerlands; Geoffrey Fielding on behalf of Saddleworth Parish Council; Mrs Joan Sykes on behalf of the Scouthead & Austerlands Community Group; Gareth Farnam-Jones on behalf ofthe North West Ambulance Service and from a representative on behalf of the Debbie Abrahams, the Member of Parliament for Oldham East and Saddleworth.

Austerlands, which has just two shops and a restaurant, and neighbour Scouthead are too slight to have their own associations.And this means the community has to demonstrate that the field on the main A62 Huddersfield Road could be retained for future use. As we are only just getting started there are lots of things we will be looking at but firstly it’s important to get people involved and to get everything set up.” Saddleworth winners were also among those who received Private Gardens merit awards, including Les Chapman from Delph and Steven Lovett from Dobcross. Our appreciation also goes to Councillor Rob Knotts for the enormous amount of work he has put in on this project, the community group for their involvement and to Saddleworth Parish Council for its commitment."

In 1979 David was elected to the Saddleworth Parish Council, representing Higher Springhead and he became chairman six years later.Under the couple’s stewardship, The Three Crowns became the hub of the community and raised many thousands of pounds for local and national charities and good causes. A spokesman for the award scheme said: “Mr Needham fits all the scheme’s attributes and is very worthy winner.” The annual Band Contest is a tradition David has been very keen to promote and keep alive. He is a very pro-active member of the committee and prepares the magazine.