A CAMPAIGN to celebrate people aged over 60 in Cornwall has already had more than 60 nominations since its launch.

The #60over60 campaign launched by Cornwall Council on April 10 is a search for residents whose stories can inspire others to make small changes to their lives.

The campaign aims to shift the sometimes negative perceptions of ageing and celebrate the valuable contributions that older residents make to the community.

The council said that the applications had been pouring in and range from people nominating themselves or others for things like taking part in triathlons and other fitness challenges to volunteering and getting a degree.

Some of the things people have said around ageing include:

“My 60s have been amazing! Yet no one told me they could be. I want to pass that nugget on to everyone else, especially those that are dreading the big 6-0!”

“I think all over-60s have something to offer and learn and should be encouraged to live their life to the full. I am a great believer in 60 is the new 30.”

“With less than two years to go to my big 7-0 I am just keeping fingers crossed that it continues to get better and better.”

The closing date for applications is May 10, after which the nominations will be shortlisted and judged for the final 60 by a panel that includes Cornwall Council portfolio holder for adults, Councillor Rob Rotchell, Nigel Clark from Age UK Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and Tarn Lamb from Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change.

Councillor Rob Rotchell said: “I’m not surprised at the amount, or the sorts of nominations we have already received as I know that there are many over 60s doing great things in and around Cornwall.

“I’m looking forward to reading through the nominations and it looks like the only difficulty will be in highlighting just 60 individuals, when it’s clear that everyone being nominated is inspiring in some shape or form.”

Nigel Clark, from Age UK and a member of the judging panel, said: “Every person, regardless of age has a contribution to make, there are people who are very active in their community and this is an opportunity to really acknowledge what they are doing and to make a big noise about it.

“We want people to come forward whether they are in the rural communities or in the urban areas to be identified and to show people that yes, they are over 60 and they’re really enjoying life.”

The final 60 are expected to be announced in June.

You can find out more and nominate someone on the 60 over 60 webpage: www.cornwall.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/become-one-of-cornwalls-60-over-60