The announcement was made today at the first face to face Business Breakfast with guest speaker Mark Adlestone OBE DL, Beaverbrooks Chairman.

The Youth Zone is hoping to raise up to £50,000 before the end of next month. When match-funded, this could mean up to £100,000 could be donated to the young peoples' charity.

Lucy Lees, Mahdlo CEO, said: "Having Mark talking about philanthropy this morning and then being presented with the matched funding opportunity is phenomenal.  A huge thanks to the donor, who does not wish to be named, for this incredible gesture.

"If we reach £50,000 pledged by local businesses and members of the community this will mean an investment of £100,000 into the future of Oldham’s young people."

Fundraising Manager Claire Crossfield added: "Whatever people can spare will make such a difference. Whether you donate the funds yourself or raise them by taking on a personal challenge, organising an event it really doesn’t matter, every penny will be doubled."

To donate or pledge your support to Mahdlo contact Claire on [email protected] or donate directly here.

Mahdlo is a registered charity based on Egerton Street and operates all across Oldham. It exists to provide opportunities, experiences and support for Oldham’s young people to enable them to be the best they can be. Open whenever schools are closed and for young people aged 8 – 19 (up to 25 with disabilities or additional needs), membership is just £5 per year and each session costs 50p.  Junior Zone members aged 8 – 12 and Senior Zone members aged 13+, have access to a wide range of high quality activities and are supported by a dedicated team of youth workers and volunteers. More information about Mahdlo can be found at www.mahdloyz.org