Town celebrates I Love Rotherham Day

IS IT a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s our very own Mr Rotherham, fighting to raise much-needed money for the town’s worthy causes.The superhero, known locally as Cllr Jahangir Akhtar, is one of many people across the town coming together today
IS IT a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s our very own Mr Rotherham, fighting to raise much-needed money for the town’s worthy causes.

The superhero, known locally as Cllr Jahangir Akhtar, is one of many people across the town coming together today for the first I Love Rotherham Day.

The fund-raising event is part of the South Yorkshire Community Foundation's 'I Love Rotherham' campaign, which will see all funds raised by Rotherham folk matched pound for pound with government funding and shared out among grassroots charities.

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Cllr Akhtar pledged to do his bit by spending today dressed in a Rotherham United kit.

When staff and residents at Oaks Day Centre in Wath heard about Cllr Akhtar’s plans, they decided that if he was really going to be Mr Rotherham for the day he should have a superhero costume to fit the bill.

Donna Gooderham, from the centre, said: "We had a great session where the clients painted costumes and the winning one was made up for Cllr Akhtar to wear for the day.

“He was a terrific sport when he came to the centre to try on his new costume and I hope he raises hundreds of pounds.”

Rotherham United have donated a full football kit and a shirt signed by the entire first team to be raffled today to help raise funds.

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Cllr Akhtar aka Mr Rotherham said that he was impressed by the positive reaction to his idea.

“I cannot believe the response we have had,” he said. “The theme for the day is loving Rotherham and I tell you I must adore the place to get dressed up in Lycra and football shorts in this weather.

“There is, of course, a serious side to this. Every pound we raise will be matched by the government to bring money into Rotherham for so many charities and local good causes.

“So not only does every pound stay in our region, it gets doubled as well.

“It seems like everyone is getting involved and I can not thank people enough for their efforts.

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“It just goes to show how generous and creative folk in Rotherham can be."

Across Rotherham, events include cake stalls, dress down days and sponsored silences.

The I love Rotherham campaign has already received backing from major organisations including Rotherham United, South Yorkshire Fire Service, Rotherham Titans, Rotherham’s HSBC and Parkgate Shopping.

Visit www.sycf.org.uk/rotherham for further information on how to get involved.

Tell us what you have planned for I Love Rotherham Day by emailing [email protected].