Oldham mourns passing of Mayoress

The Mayoress, Afsheen Chauhan, who was 45, died peacefully at home on March 27 following a battle with cancer. Afsheen leaves behind her husband, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, the Mayor of Oldham, and their three children.

As a mark of respect, the council will fly The Borough Flag at half-mast at Oldham Civic Centre until sunset on the day of the funeral.

Harry Catherall, Chief Executive of Oldham Council, said: “We are incredibly sorry to hear the news about the Mayoress, Afsheen.

“While Afsheen took ill early on in Cllr Chauhan’s time as Mayor, she bravely continued to support him in his role until the end – a true reflection of her kind and dedicated character."

“Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to the Mayor and his three children at this very difficult time, and they are all in our thoughts.”

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, added: "I’m really saddened to hear of the passing of my much-loved family friend of many years, Afsheen."

"My thoughts and prayers are with Zahid and their dear children at this difficult time." 

The Mayor would like to take this time, on behalf of his family, to thank people for their widespread support during the Mayoress’ illness, particularly local residents and his political colleagues from across the chamber. 

In the meantime, if you would like to send a formal message of condolence to the Mayor and his family, please contact the Mayor’s Office at Mayors.Office@oldham.gov.uk.