Jade Kilduff wins the Rotary public speaking competition

Mrs Dalby and Jade Kilduff from Siddal Moor at the Rotary public speaking competition

Jade Kilduff claimed victory in the Rotary public speaking competition.

Jade, a student at Siddal Moor Sports College, took part in the competition at the Pack Horse Inn, Birtle.

Students from two schools, Siddal Moor and Holy Family, battled it out in an intense head-to-head.

Holy Family pupils spoke about the social benefits of wearing make-up and mankind's ventures into space.

Siddal Moor pupil Gareth Payne Year 8, spoke about the education of young children on the perils of smoking, while Jade Kilduff Year 9 chose to speak about how foster careers should be paid a professional wage for the work that they do.

The standard was extremely high and the judging panel said they had a very hard time coming to a decision. In the end only five points separated all four competitors, resulting in, Jade being announced the overall winner.

A spokesperson for the Rotary Club said: "Jade was a confident clear speaker on a serious topic and her message was one that was backed up with facts and passion."

Jade said: "I am thrilled.

"I see the dedication my mum gives to each child that comes into her care and wanted other people to know how proud of her I am and the fact that more needs to be done to improve the fostering network."

It was a double celebration as Mrs Dalby, the staff member from Siddal Moor who has been preparing the pupils for the evening and attended the event with them, was a former winner of the title 17 years ago.

Some of the Rotarians remembered her win with a rousing speech about women's rights and a call for the Suffragette spirit to return.

Mrs Dalby said "I am very proud of both pupils and it has made me feel very nostalgic. That we were able bring the title I won back to Siddal Moor after such a long time gives me great pride.

"Jade definitely showed girl power and we will be back next year to defend our title.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Rotary Club for a very enjoyable evening and their hospitality."

The Rotary Club of Heywood arranges the competition every year to give students of local schools the chance to improve their confidence at public speaking and battle it out to be named the winner.