To win, Mrs Osborn had to write a paragraph on why she deserved a ‘Diamond Dinner.’
Her prize is a meal for two at a restaurant of her choice. Mrs Osborn has asked friend Miss Joyce Barker (94 years) to dine with her as Miss Barker was one of the first helpers delivering Meals on Wheels around Hastings.
Miss Barker said: “At the beginning, meals only cost a shilling. We delivered them by van each day. We used hay boxes to keep them warm, as we went from house to house.
Meals on Wheels were very popular. So many people wanted the service that very soon one van wasn’t enough – I had to find another car to help out!”
Mrs Osborn added: “I’m very happy to have won the competition. Joyce and I are going to the Brick Wall in Seddlescombe, for a lovely meal. Aren’t you jealous?!”
Mrs Osborn was one of four East Sussex residents to win a prize. The winners were announced ahead of national ‘Meals on Wheels’ Week, (1 – 7 October 2007).
For further information please contact Charlotte Johnson, Communications Manager, Adult Social Care on 01273 481435.
Notes to editors
The competition was organised by Apetito, an East Sussex County Council community meals provider.
Competition winners were announced to coincide with national ‘Meals on Wheels’ week, and the sixty year (diamond) celebrations.
East Sussex had three other winners who have chosen to remain anonymous for personal reasons.
Meals on Wheels started in 1947, when deliveries were made on bikes, or even in wheelbarrows and prams. Since then, the Meals on Wheels service has provided hot meals and reassurance to millions of people throughout the country.
East Sussex has the highest percentage of people over 85 in England and Wales and the second-highest percentage of people who receive a pension. By 2027, 40% of the local population will be over 60.
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