3 Mar 2008 - The Launch of Inspirational Older People

Age Concern Northern Ireland announced today its first ever Awards for Inspirational Older People, aimed at celebrating individual older people throughout Northern Ireland who inspire and motivate those around them. The awards are open to anyone over the age of 65 and will culminate in a glamorous ceremony in Belfast ’s five star Hilton Hotel on Friday 6^th June 2008.

 

Olympic pentathlete Dame Mary Peters, who is arguably one of Northern Ireland ’s best known inspirational older people, has offered her support to the event:

"Most people are retired from the age of 65 and they have many years of active life to give to others. One of the greatest pleasures in life I have is in helping those around me. Don't just sit at home, get out there and do something".

Local television and radio presenter George Jones will act as judge and host the event, presenting the awards to the various winners on the awards evening. George Jones commented:

“I am pleased to be involved in an event which gives us the fantastic opportunity of recognising the contribution that older people make to the community we live in. I’m sure most of us know someone, either a friend, neighbour or work colleague, who is an inspiration to all those around them and hasn’t let their growing years get in the way of living their life to the full. I’m pleased to be able to present the winners their awards at Age Concern’s special ceremony that will focus on what older people mean, and should mean, in our community”.

Anne O’Reilly, CEO Age Concern Northern Ireland added:
“ Northern Ireland is officially an ageing society with demographic trends indicating that over the next 20 years the country will be comprised of more older and fewer younger people. Many older people continue to make a huge impact on their communities and we want to take the time to recognise them and say thank you for their contribution. We would urge everyone out there to use this platform to ensure that their unique friend or neighbour gets the acknowledgement they deserve”.

82 year old Grace McKeown from East Belfast has been hailed as exactly the type of person Age Concern hope to see nominated in the Awards. An incredibly active member of the community, Grace is the Secretary of her local Age Concern group and is very involved with the Salvation Army, providing catering to local groups on a weekly basis and regularly assisting at Willowfield Church ’s Kids Club and Mothers & Toddlers Group.

Commenting on the Awards entry process Anne O’Reilly added: