Local hero Helen receives BEM for 11 years of Christmas toy donations

Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Shakil Ahmed with Helen, her son (left) and her daughter (right)

A council policy officer received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for the work she has done over the past 11 years to ensure the borough’s poorest children receive a Christmas present.

Helen was recognised in the New Year’s Honours List and, in June, attended a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace in celebration of her achievement.

Her dedication began in 2013 when she launched a Christmas toy appeal, which has since grown into a major annual initiative. Thanks to her selfless commitment, thousands of local children who might otherwise have nothing to unwrap on Christmas morning are given at least one gift each year.

The appeal began modestly, delivering just 75 toys to a women’s hostel in its first year. However, in 2023, it had expanded to distribute 7,000 gifts to 2,000 children across the borough.

Each year, Helen organises an appeal to local residents and businesses, encouraging them to donate toys that are then shared with children in need throughout the area.

Helen’s BEM was officially presented at a ceremony held on Tuesday at Gorton Monastery in south Manchester. She was joined at the event by her daughter, Kate, and her son, Josh.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Shakil Ahmed, was also in attendance, along with several of Helen’s colleagues from the council and close friends.