Hyde Past and Present Facebook group is celebrating after increasing its membership to the landmark number of 30,000.

The group was founded just over six years ago by Andrew Richardson with the aim of sharing the memories of local people, on how the town used to be and past events that shaped its history.

The other group purpose was to report on current goings-on and help support local businesses by allowing free advertising and encouraging local residents to shop locally.

This support was also offered to local charity groups and places that provided entertainment in the greater Hyde area.

Growth of membership has been steady and involvement in the group has also grown, with an average of 100 posts a day being approved by the volunteer team of admins.

Andrew explained that over the years the group has helped find many missing animals and property, by spreading awareness to the whole community.

Hyde Past and Present also backed the rewards to those who contributed to the well-being of the community.

First was the creation of the Pride In Hyde Awards, given to more than 60 individuals and groups that members felt had made a special contribution to the area.

More recently the group awarded medals to youngsters who unselfishly helped others during the Covid lockdowns.

As well as the main group, several spin-off groups have also originated, Hyde Jobs and Trades (which advertises job vacancies) and even a Hyde Pets group.

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