Stuart Collinson, BDM, Premier Automotive

Stuart Collinson is the business development manager in fleet sales at Kia dealer Premier Automotive.

Born and bred in Rochdale the former student of Wardle High School Sixth Form now lives in Firgrove.

He said: “My earliest memory of Rochdale is the old bus station.  I remember when my gran would look after me and my brother we’d usually come into Rochdale with her on the bus, stopping for a drink in the old bus station café, hopefully getting some sweets from the news kiosk.”

Stuart has seen Rochdale undergo a transformation during his lifetime and said he wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.

“Rochdale has the best of both worlds,” he said. “You have shopping and industry right here, close to the big city too, and always just a short walk to some stunning countryside.

“There has been a transformation over the last 10 years. The new transport hub and shopping area is the highlight.”

Premier Automotive has recently started sponsoring Rochdale Football Club and Stuart had high praise for the club.

“It is very well run and does great work in the community too,” he said. “I’d also mention Ben Boothman and his team, who have transformed hospitality in Rochdale.

“There is a good, positive feeling about Rochdale now, especially where business is concerned. The town is working hard to attract and accommodate all manner of new businesses. I believe 100 per cent that Rochdale’s best days are ahead of it.”