OLDHAM Council worker Dominic Coleman is a rising star – and that’s official.

The 27-year-old member of the authority’s strategy, partnerships and policy team was so crowned at the national Local Government Chronicle Awards for his “energy, enthusiasm and ambition” as well as his focus on collaboration and innovation.

Dominic was also described by the judges as a respected leader.

The panel said he was “clearly comfortable with policy and operational activities,” adding he had “demonstrated effective leadership skills within the council and the wider community.”

Dominic leads a number of projects, working with the Oldham Food Network and on Food Chains 4 EU an EU-wide project designed to improve local food networks.

He has also developed a partnership between Hubbub, a leading environmental charity and Incredible Futures Oldham, a local social enterprise, which led to the creation of the community fridge project which helps to reduce food waste.

Channel 4 News broadcaster Jon Snow presented him with the award at a special event in London.

Dominic said: “Oldham employees work incredibly hard and do what we do because we are passionate and committed to our work.

“To be recognised for doing what I enjoy is an absolute honour. I am very proud, both for myself and for Oldham.”

Oldham Council chief executive Dr Carolyn Wilkins added: “This is fantastic news for Dominic on a personal level and for Oldham as a whole.

“In order to serve the people of Oldham well, we need high quality leaders so to have a member of our team recognised on a national level is really encouraging. Dominic blends his deep commitment to the issue with strategy and hard-edged influencing and negotiation skills.”

And Nick Golding, LGC’s editor, said: “The LGC Awards are about celebrating the people and organisations doing the most to ensure their area succeeds.”