Craig Preston, Tracey Szymanek and Maniza Khan recieve special recognition awards

Craig Preston presented with his award by Councillor Janet Emsley

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Craig Preston, Tracey Szymanek and Maniza Khan won special recognition awards at the Living Well Rochdale Health and Well Being Conference for their work in improving their own, or others’, health and wellbeing.

Mr Preston, of Rochdale, suffered from a sudden stroke in 2012. He had two serious relapses the following year. After a long period of rehabilitation, he signed up for a stroke active course with the Rochdale Stroke Association and currently volunteers to help other stroke survivors.

Ms Szymanek, of Middleton, encourages many people across the borough to make positive changes to their lifestyles. She does this through Zumba dance and other activities, healthy eating sessions and nutrition advice.

Ms Khan, of Rochdale, encouraged residents of Deeplish to become healthier through the ‘Reducing Isolation and Engaging with Communities- Health Initiative’ grassroots project.

This involved promoting lifestyle change to prevent issues to physical and mental health, such as cancer, heart disease and dementia.

This year’s conference was hosted by Living Well Rochdale, a public health service delivered by The Big Life Group.

The service is intended to help local people make positive lifestyle changes through the local community.

Jo Walby, Assistant Director at The Big Life Group said: “The awards celebrate the fantastic work people in the borough do to change lifestyles.

“Often using their own experiences of health issues, they are an inspiration towards a healthier, happier life.”

More than 100 representatives from the borough’s voluntary, health and council services attended the event in Middleton.