Michelle Hallworth wins Inspirational Volunteer of the Year award

Michelle Hallworth with children from Middleton Popstars

Michelle Hallworth was awarded the Inspirational Volunteer Award at the Rochdale Volunteer of the Year Awards at Rochdale Town Hall.

Organised by CVS Rochdale, the awards celebrate the tireless work undertaken by volunteers across the borough.

Michelle said: “It was a fantastic surprise winning the Inspirational Volunteer Award, I had no idea that I was going to win.

“I've been a volunteer with Middleton Popstars for around 17 years, during that time I've had some great times with the group.

“Over the past six years I've had four brain tumours, however, I've still managed to do my volunteering throughout as the pleasure of helping others has kept me going.

"Last year I had intensive radiotherapy and although the process was really tiring I still kept up my volunteering.

"Anne Marshall has been fantastic throughout the whole time, giving me the support and confidence, so in turn the group has helped me in my recovery process.

“I'm honoured to receive the award and it certainly made me shed a few happy tears on the night.”

Councillor Jane Howard said: “I was so proud to be on the judging panel for our amazing volunteers who work so tirelessly across the borough making that real difference to so many people's lives.

“It's right that we were able to spend an excellent evening toasting and thanking them for all they do.

“This is the Rochdale we need to shout about- and I plan to do plenty of that.”