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Council leader's home plaque branded 'ego trip'

Adam Derbyshire
25/ 7/2007

COUNCIL leader Roy Oldham has been accused of being on "a massive ego trip" after it emerged his house has been etched into a map of Mottram's places of historical interest.

The £3,000 map was unveiled last week at Jollies Corner, Mottram, and is the first in a series of bronze maps showcasing Tameside's jewels of cultural heritage.

At first glance all the local landmarks seem in place, but on closer inspection there lies an extra nugget for historians to chew over.

Nestled beside the engravings of LS Lowry's home and the Old Post Office is a gleaming bronze carving depicting the whereabouts of the leader's home on Back Moor.

Villagers have reacted with disbelief with many arguing that Councillor Oldham will not be remembered as a historical figure, despite being council leader since 1980. They say his home should not have been included on a map of Mottram's heritage sites.

But Councillor Oldham has defended the plaque, insisting it is "just a bit of fun".

"I've lived there for 50 years, represented the ward for 40 years and was born in Mottram.

"It's like when a carpenter works in a church and carves a little church mouse on the bottom for an emblem. I don't see why anyone should make a problem but there are sad people in all walks of life."

But Tory leader Councillor John Bell was unrepetant and accused him of being on a "massive ego trip."

"Councillor Oldham's ego has run away with him, he said, "The map should depict places of fixed historical interest, not the home of a temporary council leader.

"He's already got a bridge named after himself in Stalybridge; what next, a statue in front of Ashton Town Hall in a couple of years?

"A few years ago he had CCTV installed at his home at taxpayers' expense following a bomb hoax. Now he's drawing attention to himself by putting his home on a map.

"This is the type of vain and arrogant action that gives politicians a bad name and reflects badly on all those involved in local politics."

CLICK on the video link below to see Channel M's report ...

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