Joan Davies
Woman of Rochdale 2015

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Joy Whitworth and Wendy Mills with Rochdale Woman of the Year, Joan Davies (centre)

Joan Davies has been crowned this year’s Woman of Rochdale.

In a special luncheon held this afternoon (Friday 24 April), Joan was given the honour of Woman of Rochdale for her continued work with young people in Rochdale.

Joan was a primary school teacher for 45 years which helped her gain an insight into what young people need to be full and rounded members of society.

Due to this, in a voluntarily capacity, Joan ran The Church Girls Brigade at St Alban's Church. During her time volunteering, she raised through the ranks to Lieutenant.

To this day, Joan continues to be an active member in many women’s organisations which benefit young people. She is an active member of the NSPCC Heywood branch and she supports Rochdale Music Service and Rochdale Youth Orchestra.

For over 20 years, Joan has found time to bowl at Milnrow (Ladybarn) Bowling Club, where she has been Lady President. Previously she was also president and a member of Soroptimists International Rochdale branch and is a local supporter of Guide Dogs for the Blind and RNLI.

Joan has also spent the last 22 years fundraising for Springhill Hospice alongside her husband Ken Davies.

She has fully supported Ken in his fundraising efforts for the Hospice in his role as a trustee. She is also a volunteer at the Hospice and helps with fundraising events when needed.

In her nomination, it said: “Wherever and whenever you see Joan, she always has a ready smile and makes you feel special. I have no hesitation in putting Joan Davies forward for this prestigious award, which I feel she deserves and I know she would be a true 'Rochdale Woman of the Year'.

Speaking about winning the award, Joan said: “I am completely lost for words. I didn’t expect this at all. I am looking forward to the upcoming year as Woman of Rochdale, as I have done a lot of work for the Hospice with my husband Ken.”

Joan beat off 43 other nominations to win the award.