Two Tameside residents among new Deputy Lieutenants commissioned in Greater Manchester

The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Diane Hawkins JP LLB, has appointed new Deputy Lieutenants, two of whom are Tameside residents.

The Lord-Lieutenant is appointed by HM The King and is his personal representative in Greater Manchester.

She is supported by a Vice Lord-Lieutenant and Deputy Lieutenants. Deputies are appointed to recognise their contribution to local, county or national life. 

Mrs Sadia Sadf Din LLB and Mr Mark Llewellin are among the six appointed to the roles at the end of March.

Mark was born and raised in the West Country. He studied performing arts in Yorkshire before moving to London to work at Mountview Theatre School and then London Transport where his duties included broadcasting travel information. It was during this period that he became involved with the Friends of Highgate Cemetery, serving as Secretary. He remains a life member.

Thirty years ago, he relocated to Tameside and was appointed the Oldham Coliseum Theatre’s Marketing and Business Development Director.  He wrote his first book – They Started Here – about the history of the venue.  This led to many requests to give talks, which he continues to do on a variety of topics often in aid of local charities, a second book and an annual commitment to look after Canadian Coronation Street fans visiting Manchester - www.marktalks.co.uk.

Mark’s late partner, actor Roy Barraclough MBE, became the first patron of Tameside’s Willow Wood Hospice and Mark has continued this involvement serving as volunteer fund-raiser, patron, trustee, and is currently Vice Chair. Mark is also a director/trustee of Your MCR which offers work experience and mentoring to media students whilst making a weekly on-line magazine programme and podcast focusing on Manchester’s arts and charity sectors.

Mark is a keen supporter of Greater Manchester theatres, performing arts and heritage. He is a supporter of The British Music Hall Society and co-owner of Daisy Nook Garden Centre in Oldham.

Sadia Din, originally hailing from Bolton, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester. 

As an educator, she has taught Law, Religious Education and Philosophy since 2005, following her LLB Hons from the University of Central Lancashire and Post Graduate Certificate in Education from Manchester Metropolitan University.

Sadia’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the vulnerable is evident throughout her career.  She has worked closely with students with special educational needs, including work in Equality and Diversity at Salford University.

Currently she assesses the quality of services for the most vulnerable within a charity, reflecting her passion for advocacy.

As a registered Examiner and a Governor for a High School, Sadia champions high quality education for all. 

Beyond her professional roles she actively engages in community service, volunteering in local primary schools and offering tutoring to struggling students.

Raised in a diverse community, Sadia recognises the invaluable contribution of the voluntary sector in fostering support and cohesion.

She actively promotes a culture of inclusivity and empowerment, particularly for women and youth throughout her involvement with local charities and mentoring initiatives.