Fundraiser for Maggie’s Oldham in memory of popular Rochdale teacher

Philippa Shales died of breast cancer in May 2018

The family of a popular Rochdale primary school teacher are holding an afternoon tea and quiz event in her memory to raise money for local cancer charity, Maggie’s Oldham.

Philippa Shales was 54 when she died on May 18, 2018, three years after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

During her illness, Philippa and her family found comfort and support from Maggie’s Oldham, which provides free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their family and friends.

Philippa’s husband Richard, son, Mark and daughter, Emma have organised the fundraising event, which will take place from 2.30pm on Saturday 17 August 2019 at St Mary’s Church in Balderstone, Rochdale, where Philippa was an active member of the church community.

Earlier this year, former Crompton House pupil Mark ran the London Marathon in memory of his mum, raising more than £2,000 for Maggie's Oldham.

Mark, 28, said: “My mum was an incredibly well-loved and popular figure in the community. She meant so much to so many people, and we hope this event will be an opportunity for everyone who knew and loved her to get together and celebrate her life.

"For those who didn't know my mum, we'd love you to join us too. Mum loved meeting new people and seemed to make friends wherever she went. Often you would look round to see that mum had disappeared, only to find her deep in conversation with a complete stranger.

"The same applied after she was diagnosed with cancer. She started going to the Maggie's Centre in Oldham, where she not only received incredible support herself, but also went out of her way to befriend and support others through their own battles.

"Throughout her treatment, mum's weekly visits to Maggie's were always something she looked forward to, thanks to the caring and dedicated staff and volunteers. The centre was a huge support to mum and continues to provide invaluable help to countless others and their families."

Philippa, from Rochdale, taught at St Thomas’s primary school in Newhey, Rochdale, for many years before leaving in 2016. Prior to that, she taught at St Mary's Primary School in High Crompton, and Stoneleigh Primary School in Oldham.

Tickets for the event are £5 (minimum donation) and must be reserved by emailing mark.shales@gmail.com

All proceeds will go to Maggie’s Oldham.