“I was passionate about my work with youth services”
A RESIDENT AT THE LAWN LAWN, DONALD SWANN OBE CELEBRATED HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY LAST NOVEMBER.
Donald marked his centenarian day with a birthday lunch with his son, Ian. Sadly due to Covid, his daughter Janet, daughter-inlaw Cathy, his grandchildren and great grandchildren were unable to be there. Donald continued the celebrations back at The Lawn, enjoying a birthday cake and an afternoon chatting with the care team and friends about his extraordinary life.
Donald received his OBE in the t 1977 Silver Jubilee and Birthday B Honours List announced a on June 11 that year y and received his award in recognition r for his work with the t Youth and Community Services S in Huddersfield and Bradford.
That same year, Donald was the Queen’s escort at a major event at Elland Road, the Leeds United football stadium, to celebrate the achievements of youth groups throughout Yorkshire.
Donald was also heavily involved with the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. He worked tirelessly to bring the awards closer to youth services throughout the country and established a purpose-built Awards Centre in Bradford.
“I was passionate about my work. I believed – and still do – that it is important for young people to have fun, make friends, improve their self-esteem and build their individual confidence. If I could pass on some snippet of wisdom, it would be that by taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and achieving the different elements, young people learn essential skills such as problem solving and team work, alongside becoming resilient and good communicators. All things that help in life,” said Donald.
“I received my OBE from Her Majesty in 1977 and in 2021 my 100th birthday card – and she’s the Royal Patron of Friends of the Elderly. I’m honoured to have met her.
“I was asked what my secret to a long and happy life was? I’d have to say my wonder ful family, good friends, singing, football – and early retirement.”