An OBE for Cre8’s Tony

Macclesfield philanthropist, Tony Swallow, who supports charities both locally and abroad has been appointed OBE in the New Year Honours.

Mr Swallow said it was a “privilege” to help worthy causes for youngsters and he felt “surprised and shocked”.

Mr Swallow, who spent his working life in the dairy business, set up the Swallow Trust 15 years ago to support and provide education and opportunities to children and young people in east Cheshire and Macclesfield.

He said: “My wife and I wanted to give something back.”

The trust supports charities in countries such as India and Mexico while it has also aided ones near his home.

This includes Cre8 Macclesfield Youth and Community Programme on the Moss estate, which he helped set up.

“It is a privilege… I’m glad of the opportunity to help young people,” he said.