Published: April 20, 2008
Brent Knoll grandmother receives award from GMTV presenter

A grandmother from Brent Knoll, near Burnham, has been named one of the UK's 'Grandparents of The Year' at a London awards ceremony.

Daughter Gaye nominated Jean Daffin to thank her for all the help and support she offers in caring for 18-year-old grandson Jordan, who suffers from celebral palsy.

The trio travelled to London where GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips presented Jean with the award for the South West's Grandparent Of The Year.

Jean plays a huge role in the local community, raising funds for charity groups that help to provide care for Jordan and respite from mum Gaye.

Jean and daughter Gaye have completed two fun runs in aid of Sense and Jean also hosts an annual cream tea at her home to raise vital funds for other families with disabled children.

"Jordan thinks his nanny is the best ever!" daughter Gaye told Burnham-On-Sea.com. "His face lights up when she talks to him and I could not manage to do everything without her help."

Jean said she was "shocked and delighted" to be named winner of the south west regional competition, which is run by Age Concern and Specsavers.

"The first I knew about it was when I got a phone call from the organisers saying that I had won the regional competitin!"

"I always try to be there to be there for Jordan and help him and Gaye with support when I can."

Jean enjoyed a well-earned trip to London for a special ceremony, where she received her award from GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips.

She also had a VIP trip around the House Of Commons where she met Burnham MP David Heathcoat-Amory and received flowers, champagne and a goody bag from Specsavers worth £500.

The photos show (top) Jean, Gaye and Jordan with GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips; and (bottom) the trio on the London Eye