THE community-driven Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Ginny Alexander, has launched a unique, open-handed scheme, which is aiming to touch the hearts of townsfolk.

She is asking anyone who has a family member, friend or neighbour to e-mail her directly with their special personal anniversary or birthday requests.

She is specifically targeting anyone from July onward who is celebrating a 100th birthday or a significant wedding anniversary - gold, diamond or platinum.

The kindhearted councillor has had her mayoral office extended by the leader of the council Sean Fielding until May next year because of the crisis.

But the ongoing pandemetic has caused widespread chaos and led to a heartbreaking shutdown of a number of key family events that would have been celebrated and shared during her time as the borough's first citizen.

“I want everyone to feel the joy and know they are loved and their hopes and aspirations are still very much supported during these extraordinary times, “ she said.

In return, she says she will make a personal visit to each of them with a special card and a present.

Ginny said: “ I decided to do this because of the vast number of people in lockdown who are not able to share or celebrate their own special day.

"I didn’t want them to feel isolated. I thought I’d bring a bit of joy to those and make their day extra memorable.

“At the moment we still cannot attend large events but this is my way of showing we care about people and cannot allow their special day go unnoticed.

“I will accept people who are 80 years and over but not younger and only those who live in the borough.

“These are remarkable local folk who have been the very backbone of our town over the years.

"But because of the current rules it may not be safe to share their very special day with their families or friends.

“I wanted them all to know they are all very much loved and cared for by the town.”

And the inbox of her email is already filling with requests to share in the unique celebration, which is backed by her consort husband, Adrian, and the borough’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Jenny Harrison.

Ginny, who herself celebrates 30 years of marriage to her husband on July 28, added: “The idea seems to have touched a magical chord.

‘‘I’m just so pleased that folk want me to visit in my capacity as mayor. It’s very humbling.”

@ if you have a birthday or anniversary request, e-mail: ginny.alexander@oldham.gov.uk