Tameside saluted its community champions at a special gathering on Tuesday (1 March). 

Various voluntary groups from across the borough gathered at Hyde Town Hall to both celebrate and promote their achievements over the last 12 months. 

It was a great opportunity to network with other groups who operate in very diverse areas across the whole community. 

Over the past couple of years, Tameside Council has created an umbrella organisation which aims to promote volunteers signing up, then sign posting them to their most local group that helps in sectors they most want to get involved in. 

Several health and wellbeing groups were in attendance as well as Mentell, who provide groups for men dealing with mental health issues and a group who provide support for families living with Alzheimer's. 

Other groups represented included the Scout Movement and the Digital Champions, who refurbish unwanted tech and advice on how to operate the devices they are given. 

Another new project, named Tameside In Work, was also represented. 

One of the project's coordinator's, Iain Forrest, explained it was developed to those assist those in low paid jobs, or on zero hours contracts to progress, by helping them find appropriate training or advice while job hunting. This is in addition to help available for those who are receiving out of work support. 

Action Together were also on hand to advise the various groups on funding opportunities and support for local groups across the borough. 

Tameside Civic Mayor Cllr Janet Cooper, along with several local councillors, were also present to learn about the ongoing community work by their constituents. 

A number of 'Certificates of Achievement' were also presented to those recognised for their outstanding contributions to the Tameside community through the champions network team - including Tameside Neighbourhood Watch's Tony Moran. 

Event manager Graham Thomas was extremely pleased with the turnout and said what was planned as an annual event may happen more often. 

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