Oldham townswomen’s guild raises funds for MND Association following ex-rugby player Kevin Sinfield’s footsteps

Royton Townswomen’s Guild has dedicated their fundraising activities over the past 12 months to Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.

Royton Townswomen’s Guild has dedicated their fundraising activities over the past 12 months to local ex-rugby league player Kevin Sinfield’s charity of choice, Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. 

Inspired by the suffrage movement, the guild was formed in 1962 by a group of women in Royton and the surrounding area to create a space for women to learn, bond and speak their minds.

Barbara Micklethwaite, Chairman of Royton Townswomen’s Guild, said: “We are delighted to be able to donate £2,000 to the Motor Neurone Disease Association. 

“MND has been put on the map with Kevin Sinfield’s fundraising efforts, and being fellow Oldhamers, it seemed only fitting to get on board too, especially as some of our members have personal connections with this dreadful disease. 

Motor Neurone Disease can drastically impact the brain and nerves, causing significant weakness over time. Currently, there is no cure, meaning it can become a debilitating situation for those unfortunate to be diagnosed with it. 

Besides wanting to support fellow Oldhamer, Kevin Sinfield, some group members have also been affected by MND within their own families. Hence, keeping the MND charity was an obvious choice for the group’s chosen charity for 2023.  

“Much more needs to be done, but every bit helps, and we want to thank everyone for supporting us in our fundraising efforts. A special thanks goes to Playhouse 2 in Shaw, who donated half of their charity night tickets for their latest production of Calendar Girls to us,” Barbara said.

Royton Townswomen’s Guild presented the cheque to the MND Association at a recent meeting.