Mags is our August Hidden Hero

A retired teacher who helps ensure Tensing Street Community Centre in Bardsley runs smoothly is our August Hidden Hero. 

Mags Poulton is the volunteer lead at the centre, where she helps coordinate its day-to-day running, activities and events. 

She also goes the extra mile in December each year to organise the centre’s popular Christmas Day party. 

Mags, from Oldham, took on the volunteer lead role around five years ago after a career in primary school teaching. Since then, she has helped make the centre more accessible and around 80 different people now use it each month. 

“When I heard I’d been named a hidden hero, my first reaction was, ‘oh no, it’s not about me’,” the 61-year-old from Oldham said. 

“I’m just the one at the head of the pack who pulls it all together - a bit like the grandma of the family. It does make me proud, and I’m glad the centre has been recognised, but really the centre is all about the people.” 

Mags added: “For me, it’s always been about getting people through the door however we can, whether that’s a fair, a coffee morning or a police surgery so they know the centre is here. Once they’ve come in once, we try to give them a reason to come back.” 

FCHO Project and Partnerships Officer Ghazalla Iqbal gave Ms Poulton her award that comes with a £50 shopping voucher. 

She said: "Mags is the heart of the centre and a tireless champion for the community. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the centre is welcoming, inclusive, and running smoothly for everyone. 

“She manages activities that respond to the needs of local people, from working alongside the police to help tackle crime, to creating opportunities for adults with learning difficulties to develop new skills. 

"Thank you, Mags, for your unwavering commitment, kindness and dedication. Your hard work and passion for helping others has made a lasting difference to the centre and the wider community.”