Denise Sullivan says voluntary work keeps her mind and body active and healthy – and, in fact, she doesn’t have time to be old.

Mrs Sullivan, whose cause most dear is Meals on Wheels, said she felt “very, very privileged” to have been given the title of Senior of the Year yesterday at the presentation of the Tamworth Seniors Week Awards.

She is also a great role model for the younger generation, supported in the audience at Tamworth Town Hall by her daughter Angela Goodfellow and granddaughter Mia.

Mia and her Nan-ma were pictured in last week’s The Tamworth Times, delivering a meal to some Meals on Wheels recipients.

Mrs Sullivan said she hoped, and believed, younger generations would continue the volunteering tradition, just like Mia, when they grew older.

“It’s great volunteering in different organisations,” she said.

“You could sit around at home and twiddle your fingers, but you get old ... I don’t have time to be old!

“I get a lot of enjoyment out of it.

“It keeps me young and healthy, keeps my mind active and I love being with people.”

Mrs Sullivan was a founding member of Tamworth Lioness Club and has held many positions in the group.

Her nomination also states she is always aware of seniors with special needs and assists by taking them to doctor’s appointments or for coffee.

“She is very generous with her time and skills, showing care and concern for all.

“She works Meals on Wheels as a volunteer and works in the kitchen as part of the Tamworth Lions Club team.”

The other nominees were Reverend Gillian Jones, Carol Thornton, Jim Thornton, Jill Moroney, John Crosby, Brian Kelly, Trevor Gilchrist, Eva Partridge and Suzanne Turner.