Anne Needham – Woman of the Year 2011

Reporter: Laura Wild
Date online: 04 May 2011

Anne Needham was named Woman of the Year 2011 at the Women of Rochdale Luncheon held at the Town Hall today (Wednesday 4 May 2011).

Anne, 64, was recognised with the award for her fundraising achievements over the past seven years.

Anne, of Bury Road, started fundraising for Christies, along with her husband Peter, following the death of their daughter Elizabeth. Elizabeth was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 27 and passed away when she was 32.

Elizabeth was treated with Herceptin but at the time it wasn’t available to everyone. Anne and Peter wanted to raise money to so that everyone who needed Herceptin could receive it. They were advised to raise money to help pay for the other things that patients need so that money could be set aside for Herceptin – and they did just that, raising almost £100,000.

Anne was overcome with emotion when her name was read out in a room filled with over 250 women from across the borough. In her acceptance speech she said she started the fundraising to “give women a better chance in life.” She added: “I don’t feel I deserve this award.”

Anne was presented the rose bowl by last year’s winner Sue Ridgard.

Speaking to Rochdale Online, Anne said: “We are living without our beautiful girl in our lives and this helps to make us feel slightly better.”

Anne praised the support of her family and friends who have been involved in the various fundraisers she has organised, from bag packing to a half marathon!

Anne said she would do anything so other families don’t have to go through what hers went through.

“Hopefully Elizabeth will be watching and she will be saying ‘keep doing it mum.’”

As well as recognising the achievements of women from across the borough the luncheon also raised much needed funds for Springhill Hospice. Guests enjoyed a four course meal, entertainment and a speech from the ex-Chief Superintendent of Greater Manchester Police Lilian King.

The Chief Executive of Springhill Hospice, Christine Webb, said: “It is lovely to see so many women here. So many people help us and without them we couldn’t do what we do.”