Celebrating the '60 over 60' campaign

As a testament to the many spectacular people who live in Cornwall, in just over two weeks since its launch there have been over 60 nominations to be one of Cornwall’s inspirational #60over60 campaign.

The campaign launched by Cornwall Council on 10th April is searching for residents whose stories can inspire others to make small changes to their lives. The campaign aims to shift the sometimes negative perceptions of ageing and celebrate the valuable contributions that older residents make to the community.

The applications have been pouring in and range from people nominating themselves or others for things like taking part in triathlons and other fitness challenges; volunteering and getting a degree. Nigel Clark, Age UK Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly, talks about how important it is to recognise the inspiring individuals in the County. Please click the video to view and find out more.

Some of the things people have said around ageing include:

“My 60s have been amazing!!! Yet no one told me they could be. I want to pass that nugget on to everyone else, especially those that are dreading the big 6 O!”

“I think all over 60s have something to offer and learn and should be encouraged to live their life to the full. I am a great believer in 60 is the new 30”

“With less than two years to go to my Big 7 O I am just keeping fingers crossed that it continues to get better and better.”

The closing date for applications is on 10th May after which the nominations will be shortlisted and judged for the final 60 by a panel that includes Cornwall Council portfolio holder for Adults, Councillor Rob Rotchell, Nigel Clark from Age UK Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and Tarn Lamb from Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change.

Councillor Rob Rotchell said: “I’m not surprised at the amount, or the sorts of nominations we have already received as I know that there are many over 60’s doing great things in and around Cornwall. I’m looking forward to reading through the nominations and it looks like the only difficulty will be in highlighting just 60 individuals when it’s clear that everyone being nominated is inspiring in some shape or form.”

Nigel Clark from Age UK Cornwall and member of the judging panel said: “Every person, regardless of age has a contribution to make, there are people who are very active in their community and this is an opportunity to really acknowledge what they are doing and to make a big noise about it”

“We want people to come forward whether they are in the rural communities or in the urban areas to be identified and to show people that yes, they are over 60 and they’re really enjoying life”.

The final 60 are expected to be announced in June 2019.  Click this link for more information and details on how to nominate https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/60over60?