Lorna Lee-Price from Cardiff, aged 81 has been recognised as one of the winners in a nationwide competition celebrating remarkable older people and has been awarded a Purple Plaque.
Lorna was nominated for her incredible achievements as one of the first women to participate in the women’s Olympic Long Jump in 1948. The competition has been organised by home care company, Home Instead which has a local office in Cardiff.
Every day, they hear impressive stories about what older people have accomplished in their lives, especially clients like Lorna. Home Instead wanted to ensure that they don’t go forgotten so they launched a campaign, awarding purple plaques to those who are particularly outstanding and placed them next to English Heritage plaques which honour British historical figures.
Lorna’s purple plaque was positioned in Belfast next to a plaque commemorating Anthony Trollope, the English novelist. Lorna was proud to be positioned next to the famous storyteller, as her story will be shared for years to come too.
Philip Batchelor, owner of Home Instead Cardiff said: “Its so wonderful that we are commemorating the lives of the ageing population and redefining age. Celebrating people’s lives is something we don’t do often enough and that’s something we’d like to change.”
Lorna said: “In the 1940s running wasn’t seen as feminine. Women weren’t even allowed to run in the 400 metres! I often think back to receiving the letter, confirming I was chosen to participate in the Olympics, it was such a privilege. I feel very proud to have paved the way for women in sports, empowering them to make their mark.”
