A local fundraiser has been named a ‘Local Hero’ on the WRVS’s Gold Age Power List.
Ted Cowling, 91, from Telford, was presented with his award this week by age positive charity WRVS in recognition of his ‘fantastic community spirit and contribution to society over the years’.
Joining the likes of the Queen, Delia Smith, David Attenborough and Michael Palin to make the final list of 66, Ted has been recognised for the invaluable contribution he makes to the local community.
Ted has been fundraising for several charities for more than 32 years and has raised more than £75,000 in total. He has always played a very active role in his community, forming trust funds for causes close to his heart. Ted has overcome personal tragedy after recently losing his wife as well as both of his daughters to cancer, to raise vital money for local charities.
Before retiring, Ted was a member of the RAF and was personally chosen by Winston Churchill to undertake a top secret mission to fly to Russia to meet Stalin.
Ted said: “I am so pleased to be one of the WRVS Local Heroes winners. It was a lovely surprise to find out that my granddaughter had nominated me! Raising money for charity is very important to me and I have made some great friends over the years and met some great people.”
As well as recognising the UK’s local heroes, the list also celebrates those aged over 66 from the worlds of arts, sports and adventure, science, public service and business.
Lynne Berry, chief executive of WRVS, said: “Our list demonstrates the extraordinary social and cultural contribution older people make and it was incredibly difficult to agree a final list of 66 people as there is such a wealth of talent and contribution older people are making – including the inspirational impact volunteers, like Ted, are making in helping to make Britain a great place to grow old.”
Comedian Jenny Eclair, supporter and judge of the Gold Age Power List, said: “All of us are getting older and some of us will fall to pieces quicker than others – the WRVS provide some of the kindest and most efficient helping hands to those who need it most. I was honoured to be invited to join the Gold Age Power List judging panel and have a hand in making sure very deserving individuals were recognised for the incredible influence they continue to have.”