DOES Pembroke Dock have the greatest grandparent?
Research shows that grandparents are saving families £3.9 billion every year by providing two-thirds of all childcare in the UK for free.
Further research also indicates that 82 per cent of children also receive some care from grandparents and the childcare provided allows more than half of all UK parents to return to work. It is also suggested that their involvement in a child's education can make that child a better achiever.
To celebrate this pivotal role that they play in Pembroke Dock, Age Concern has teamed up with Specsavers to find the Grandparent of the Year 2009.
Now in its 18th year, the aim of the awards is to publicly acknowledge the 14 million grandparents all over the country and the key role they play in family life.
The award gives children aged six and over the chance to nominate their grandparents, or a special older person, to say thank you for all the love and support they receive.
This year, 13 regional winners will be chosen throughout the UK and of these, five lucky national finalists will travel to London next March for a reception at the House of Commons, where the winner will be announced by TV presenter Fiona Phillips on Wednesday, March 25, 2009.
The national winner of the Grandparent of the Year 2009 title will receive £3,000 cash to spend as they wish, plus £750 in eyecare vouchers and £2,000 in hearing vouchers, courtesy of Specsavers. Closing date for the entries is Monday, November 30.
Gary Owen, Specsavers store director in Pembroke Dock, said: "We are delighted to support Age Concern to find the UK's Grandparent of the Year for the second year running. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to help local families recognise the pivotal role grandparents play in the lives of those around them."
To enter please log onto http://www.ageconcern.org.uk/grandparents">www.ageconcern.org.uk/grandparents, http://www.specsavers.co.uk">www.specsavers.co.uk or visit your nearest Age Concern centre or Specsavers store to pick up a nomination form.