Noreen Arnold, a 'truly genuine selfless woman,’ named Derry Pensioner of the Year

A sprightly 64-year-old has been named as Derry Pensioner of the Year. Noreen Arnold picked up the award at an organised by Older People North West (Age Concern) which took place at their Malevern House premises on Chapel Road in the Waterside of the city.. Noreen (pictured) was nominated by Ballymagroarty Hazelbank Community Partnership for her work with Ballymagroarty community groups and Macmillan Cancer and as a mental health advocate. But despite her tireless volunteer work she was bowled over to hear she had been nominated. “I was totally shocked to be honest,” she said. “Most of the stuff I do is behind the scene in the background so I just wasn’t expecting this.” Maeve McLaughlin, Community Engagement Officer with Ballymagroaty Hazelbank Community Partnership, described Noreen as ‘a truly genuine selfless woman’. “Noreen was nominated for the award for her work in establishing the Ballymagroarty Women’s Group, addressing mental health issues, role as a Board Member with the Ballymagroarty Community Association and Festival Committee,” she said. “Noreen has also worked tirelessly fundraising for local charities.”