Commonwealth Games gold medallist Joanna Rowsell honoured with town hall ‘thank you’

Council Leader Richard Farnell with Commonwealth Gold Medallist Joanna Rowsell MBE.

Olympic and Commonwealth medal winning cyclist Joanna Rowsell MBE was special guest at Rochdale Town Hall this week. The Middleton based champion was invited for a civic ‘thank you’ by Council Leader Richard Farnell in recognition of her success in 2014 which included a gold in Glasgow after a breath-taking performance in the Individual Pursuit.

Council Leader Richard Farnell paid tribute to Joanna and said it was a fantastic achievement, making media headlines around the globe: “On behalf of the residents of this borough I would like to say how proud we are of you. As well as being a phenomenal success, you are a fantastic ambassador for our borough and the council wants to formally congratulate you on a truly wonderful year.”

Joanna said she enjoyed her town hall visit: "It has been an amazing year; it’s an honour to be thanked in this way and I really appreciate all the local support.”

In addition to her Olympic and commonwealth medals Joanna, who does some of her training at Middleton Arena, is a five times world champion, four times team pursuit champion and a member of the Great Britain Cycling Team. This month she returned to the Great Britain squad for the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in London.

Back in June this year Joanna spent a day in Littleborough and Rochdale, helping the council promote the visit of the Tour de France. During her town hall visit the Council Leader presented her with a souvenir framed photo montage of the day.

After moving to Boarshaw in 2010 from London, she has certainly discovered the borough’s stunning scenery and regularly explores it on two wheels.

“Joanna has been one of the best sportswomen in Britain this year, her dedication and preparation is truly exceptional and her success thoroughly deserved,” added Councillor Farnell.