Owen turns 40

Here's Owen, completing his 247th parkrun on 15 March, a great achievement and a tribute to the support he has had from numerous supporters who have guided him round the 5km course. He does know the way, but he needs to be accompanied.

Owen's 40th birthday party, organised by his mum, was held on 16 March at the LMRCA Railway Club at Navigation Road. It was loud. Some of those with worn out eardrums, of whom I was one, had difficulty hearing very much, but thoughts of leaving early evaporated as the partygoers enjoyed themselves and serious attempts to converse were made.

Owen is one of a wide community of adults with learning difficulties of one type or another. Many of his friends and carers from that community, as well as a good number of his parkrun friends and his family, including his sister from Australia, were present. It was a very jolly occasion.

There came a point when a speech was required.

With a little help from Jenny, his mum, and his words started to flow. An excellent speech.

A long time teacher/carer then spoke a few words in tribute to the lad he has been supporting for the last 20 years.

YMCA is clearly a favourite.

It was a pleasure to be invited to this joyous occasion. We left feeling a little better in this fractured world.