Dedicated Volunteer Wins Good Morning Britain Volunteer Champion Award

Longstanding Age UK Bolton volunteer David Morley has won the ITV Good Morning Britain Volunteer Champion Award.

David, 81, who has volunteered as an art class tutor at Age UK Bolton for eight years, was invited onto the show to speak about how his art class is helping to combat isolation.

David was presented with the Volunteer Champion Award on the show, as well as being surprised with a video message from his favourite comedian Tim Vine congratulating him on the award.

David said: “I’m over the moon to receive the award. I thought I was just going on to speak about my art class so it was a huge surprise. It means a lot to me because I dedicate a lot of time to my art class and to Age UK Bolton. I know that the class has a real impact on the people who come along and that’s what keeps me going.”

He added: “Teaching art is my passion and I plan on doing it for as long as possible. I teach it because anyone can do it, no matter their age or ability. It’s as simple as putting paint onto paper, and it really helps people relax and get their confidence back.”

David joined Age UK Bolton as a volunteer in 2018 after suffering a stroke. Looking to get back on his feet, he came to the Age UK Bolton Ageing Well Centre in Farnworth, originally joining a computer class.

Once he regained his confidence, David decided to start up his own class at the centre, channelling his love of art and painting. Originally a six-week course, Beginner’s Art now runs weekly, attracting a group of up to twelve members every week.

Guided step-by-step by David, the class members learn to paint something different each week, which helps to improve their confidence and gives them the chance to express themselves creatively.

One member of the class even catches two buses every week to ensure she can get to the art class.

Another member, Kathleen Holmes, is a regular member of the class and has been going weekly for two years now.

Kathleen, 79, said: “I was interested in things to do and I thought, an art class, I think I might try that because I’ve not done it since I’ve left school.”

“I really enjoy it but it’s a challenge and I like that! I love the people and it’s company…I’ve got friends here and I’ve met people and they’re really nice to get on with,” Kathleen added.

Good Morning Britain invited David to join the show as part of their 1 Million Minutes Campaign, which invites people to pledge just 30 minutes of their time to help an older person.

The campaign teams up with Age UK to help end loneliness by pledging their time to help an older neighbour, friend or relative before Christmas.

Age UK Bolton is dedicated to combatting loneliness through its Befriending, Ageing Well and Home From Hospital services, which are a lifeline to older people during the festive period and all year round. This Christmas, the charity is asking the public to support its local winter appeal to help end loneliness in Bolton.

To donate £5, text AGEWELL to 70085.

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