Steve Butterworth – Rochdale Man of the Year 2011

Reporter: Laura Wild
Date online: 25 November 2011

A pub landlord from Whitworth who supports numerous local charities has been named Rochdale Man of the Year 2011.

Steve Butterworth, 55, was named Man of the Year at a prestigious luncheon attended by men from across the borough on Friday (25 November).

Mr Butterworth runs the Red Lion and The Sportsman in Whitworth and over the years has raised money for various charities, including Sunnybank and Sunnyside care centres in Whitworth.

He also hosts various charity fundraising evenings in his pubs and sponsors local teams, as well as being a Community First Responder with the Ambulance Service.

When his name was read out Mr Butterworth said he was “speechless” and thanked everybody involved.

Speaking to Rochdale Online Mr Butterworth said: “I am very shocked – I only came as a dinner guest, I didn’t have a clue!”

The father-of-four described winning the award as “unbelievable.”

Mr Butterworth, originally from Halifax, said he “enjoys” all the charity work he does, adding: “I support all the local charities in Whitworth and I would do anything for any family in need.

“In my youth I lost a limb in an accident and since then I’ve always wanted to help other people.”

Outgoing Man of the Year Garry Whitworth, presented the plate to Mr Butterworth, he said: “The past 12 months as Man of the year have flown past very very quickly so I hope that the Man of the Year 2011 enjoys the experience.”

Mr Whitworth said being Man of the Year raised the profile of the GEM Appeal – the reason he was recognised – and he once again thanked everyone for their support.

Guests at the lunch, which was sponsored by Jackson Jackson, enjoyed a five course meal before being entertained by Graham ‘Grumbleweed’ Walker.

The luncheon also saw a cheque, for £2,500, which was raised at the Rochdale Business Awards, presented to the Chairman of Springhill Hospice, Robert Clegg, from Steve Lowe of the Rochdale Business Awards steering group.