William Keown Trust is seeking nominations for annual awards

SIR, — A few months ago I wrote advising of the William Keown Trust Personal Achievement Awards, which highlight the achievements and promote the dignity of people with disabilities.

There are many thousands of such people in Northern Ireland and we believe they are worthy of recognition. There is still time to make a nomination for this unique honour.

There are five categories:

• Children of Courage Awards

This award is presented to children who have shown courage, determination and resilience in overcoming adverse circumstances. Children under 18, with or without a disability, may be nominated for this award.

• Adult Achievement Awards

This award is presented to people with disabilities who have shown particular effort, resilience and strength of mind in overcoming their disability.

Many such people have gone on to give a service to the community and encouragement to others. Adults with disabilities (over 18 years) are eligible.

• Carers Awards

This is for anyone who cares for a friend, parent or relative. They must not be a professional carer i.e a nurse.

• The Haldane Butcher Award

This award is for exceptional endurance and determination to overcome illness, injury or disability over a protracted period of time. The winner will be selected from the nominations submitted from the top three awards.

• Christopher McCollum Memorial Cup

This award is to be presented to someone who makes a significant difference to the life of someone with a disability or illness and who is not part of the family circle.

The inspiration for the cup was in recognition of the wonderful friendship Christopher, aged 16, received from his life long special able-bodied best friend, Christopher Hardy, which helped Christopher enjoy and take part in many things all boys and girls like to do, especially with another friend.

Nomination forms for all these are available from Trust Headquarters at 3 Church View, Dundrum, Co Down, BT33 0TA. Telephone: 028 4375 1243 or email: wkeowntrust@btconnect.com.

We will be delighted to receive nominations for all these awards but they must be received by March 30.

The ceremony will be held at the end of May when the awards will be presented by our president, Kate Smith, formerly of Ulster Television.

Yours etc.,

MARY McCRACKEN,

William Keown Trust.