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Dave Gibbons receives his award from Niamh O’Connell, left, and Rachel Murphy, second left, Specsavers Castlebar store directors, with Daniela Hudson, audiologist, and Shane Gibbons, Dave's grandson. Photo: Keith Heneghan

Dave wins Connaught Specsavers Grandparent of the Year Award

LOVING grandfather Dave Gibbons from Claremorris has been crowned the Connaught winner of Specsavers Grandparent of the Year 2019, an award that celebrates the extraordinary contribution that grandparents make to the lives of grandchildren and the community.

Dave was named provincial winner for his outstanding support, care and devotion to his grandson, Shane Gibbons.

The team at Specsavers Castlebar were delighted to present Dave with his prize of a bottle of champagne, a Specsavers eyewear voucher, and a framed certificate.

As well as being a loving grandparent to Shane (21), Dave’s caring nature is infectious.

He was hands on in caring for Shane since he was born, and Shane said of their relationship today: “He is the first person I call when I have good news and the first person I call when I need help. You will rarely see one of us without the other.”

Dave invests all of his time into being a good role model to Shane and this is why Shane believes his grandfather is such a deserving winner.

Said Dave: “I am delighted and overwhelmed to have been selected as the Connaught winner of the Specsavers Grandparent of the Year Award. It is such an honour and so touching to know that my grandson is proud of our story and that he cherishes our relationship.”

Irish rugby player Rory Best launched the campaign in December 2019 as an ambassador for Specsavers Audiologists’ Grandparent of the Year 2019 Award.

Said Rory: “It is a fantastic way to recognise and appreciate the special role that grandparents play in Irish families, whilst encouraging people to prioritise their hearing. I want to commend Dave for the incredible role he has played in Shane’s life.”

Audiologist at Specsavers Castlebar, Elizabeth Ryan, commented: “We are thrilled to present Dave with his prize, and we’re touched by the wonderful story written by his grandson.

“This campaign recognises the special role that grandparents play in Irish families and communities. It’s an amazing opportunity for younger generations to recognise their changing role and show the appreciation that they deserve. It is heart-warming to see such a strong bond between a grandson and his grandfather.”

Specsavers Audiologists partnered with for Beaumont Hospital’s Cochlear Department for the second year running who are proud co-sponsors of Specsavers Grandparent of the Year 2019.