CHILDREN in Pembroke Dock have been given one more week to nominate their grandma or grandpa for Grandparent of the Year. The competition, held by Age Concern in association with Specsavers, has had its closing deadline extended by an extra week due the large number of entries. Entries will now be accepted until December 10 to allow all who have not entered one last chance to nominate their loved ones. The annual awards, now in their 17th year, recognises grandparents with inspirational and heart-warming stories to tell. Nominations can be made by anyone aged seven or above, as well as by those wanting to recognise an older person who they feel has played the role of a grandparent in their lives, even if they are not necessarily related. Gordon Lishman, director general of Age Concern said: "Grandparents have never been so popular. We're delighted to have had such a fantastic response for a competition, which honours the crucial role grandparents play in family life. Any grandchildren who haven't yet nominated a grandparent should take advantage of the extra time we are allowing and make this year special for them." Gary Owen, store director at Specsavers in Pembroke Dock, said: "We would like to thank everyone who has entered so far. This is such a special campaign as it allows local families to recognise the achievements of grandparents and the pivotal role they play in the lives of those around them." The judges will select six regional winners and five national finalists who will go on to win an all- expenses-paid VIP weekend in London, accompanied by the grandchild nominated them and their parents, to attend the awards ceremony at the House of Commons, hosted by breakfast TV presenter Fiona Phillips. The winning Grandparent of the Year 2007 will receive a cash prize of £3,000, as well as £750 in eyecare vouchers and £2,000 in hearing vouchers, courtesy of Specsavers. To nominate your grandparent for the Grandparent of the Year competition, please visit Specsavers in Pembroke Dock or your nearest Age Concern centre to collect a nomination form. Alternatively, please email [email protected]">[email protected] or log onto http://www.specsavers.co.uk">www.specsavers.co.uk and http://www.ageconcern.org.uk">www.ageconcern.org.uk. Closing date for entries is Monday, December 10.
