Glenn given UK award for MS fundraising

Glenn Swann, from Glynn, raised £1,000 through the sale of Loom Band bracelets.

The Larne High School pupil has been given a ‘Volunteer Award’ in recognition of this achievement.

Glenn’s father John suffers from the illness, and as a result, he has become an enthusiastic fundraiser.

Mum Allison commented: “We are more than delighted and very proud.”

She explained that Glenn had been nominated for the award by the Larne and East Antrim branch of the charity but his win came as a complete surprise.

She said that Glenn had made hundreds of the multi-coloured elastic band bracelets which he sold at a fund-raiser in the Prom Cafe, at a darts tournament and among family and friends.

“Glenn has grown up with John having MS. John goes to an MS class at the leisure centre and Glenn goes with him during holidays. It is a physio class and Glenn does exercises with him.”

Glenn received the trophy at Queen’s University’s Riddell Hall, last Thursday night. The ceremony was hosted by UTV’s Paul Reilly to highlight the contribution of volunteers and for people with MS.

Patricia Gordon, director of MS Society NI, said: “Our volunteers are such an example to us all that I am delighted to be able to recognise their contribution.

“There are over 4,500 people in Northern Ireland with MS and 100,000 across the United Kingdom. The MS Society is here for people with MS through the highs and lows and everything in between but we could not do that without the passion and commitment of our volunteers. With their help, we are strong enough to stop MS.”