92-year-old Bob puts art and soul into fundraising
BOB Bone, 92, is one of just 15 winners of a nationwide competition celebrating remarkable older people, having wowed judges with his fundraising efforts.
In a competition hosted by Greatest Hits Radio and Home Instead, the public was asked to nominate elderly people who have done something exceptional as part of their purple plaque awards.
Bob, from Fleet, was nominated by one of his care team, Selina Trafford, due to the money he raised selling his paintings for the NHS, Help For Heroes and the National Heart and Lung Foundation Institute. It was his idea, as an amateur artist, to sell his artwork and put the money to worthwhile causes.
Radio DJ Andy Crane and his team have been on the road, passing on the winners’ prizes.
Bob’s prize is a purple plaque, which mirrors the blue English Heritage
plaques that commemorate outstanding, well-known people.
He held his prize with pride at an afternoon tea party at Wickham Court, in Church Crookham, that celebrated his win, which was hosted by Home Instead Farnborough, Farnham and Fleet, a company that provides him with care at home.
Bob was joined by his daughter, other residents and three members of the Home Instead team.
The fundraiser, who was inspired by the efforts of Captain Sir Tom Moore, said: “What an honour to win this award.
“I’m so grateful for people recognising the work I’ve done to support organisations that help so many. Knowing that I’m making a difference only makes me more motivated to continue.”
Ms Trafford, a field care supervisor who nominated Bob for the award, said: “Bob is cherished by all of the team at Home Instead and is always a delight to be around.
“I was over the moon to find out my nomination was accepted, particularly when you consider there are only 15 awards in the whole of the UK.
“He is extremely talented and committed to helping others. That’s why this award is well deserved.”
Suzanne Wilson, general manager of Home Instead Farnborough, Farnham and Fleet, said: “Bob is an extraordinary and charming man who brings a smile to the face of all who meet him.
“It’s been a huge honour to care for Bob. Whether it’s companionship, home help, personal care, dementia care or live-in care, knowing we are supporting our clients to remain living independently in their own homes, where most of us want to be, is such a rewarding feeling.”