150th Anniversary Dinner – A huge success!
On Saturday June 27th 2026, over 250 people gathered for the gala dinner at the town-centre venue ‘The Loom’ to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Oldham RLFC. This proved to be a fantastic night as the Oldham Rugby League Community turned out in force to mark this milestone of our club.
The evening got underway with an address from new chairman, Terry Flanagan.
Six new members were inducted into the club’s ‘Hall of Fame’ with Mick Worrall and Neil Roden there on the night to accept the honour in person. Des Foy sent a video message over from Ireland and there were representatives from the families of Alf Wood and Bob Sloman. Joseph Platt was added in the ‘Outstanding Contribution’ category and a message was sent in from his great grandson which included:
“I am delighted that my great grandpa’s contribution to Rugby League is being honoured in this way and that ‘The Cup and Cap’ have now found a home in perpetuity. They have found their rightful home. Thank you to all concerned.
Nick and Jonathan Whipp.
The cup and cap were items of memorabilia donated by the family to the Heritage Trust collection. Also on show on the night were caps and a trophy brought in by the Sloman family.
As well as ‘Flan’ other Hall of Famers in attendance were Mike Elliott and Roger Halstead.
The atmosphere in the room was buzzing as supporters mingled with the many former players (more than 50) in attendance. A popular part of the evening was a section devoted to “Messages from Down Under” when eight stars of yesteryear took time out to send a video with their best wishes and congratulations for the 150th celebration.
There was a discussion panel with former players; Neil Flanagan, Adie Belle and Phil Joy along with current first team coach Alan Kilshaw. The evening was well managed by Michael ‘Braddy’ Bradshaw and the Trusts’ Kevin Fitzpatrick.