OAP carer is top learner

John Humphreys has completed several computer courses

A pensioner has proven that a you can teach an old dog new tricks by clinching first prize in a learner's award.

John Humphreys, 85, from Cowbridge in the Vale of Glamorgan has been chosen as the winner of Age Concern Cymru's senior learner award 2003.

He is one of the oldest winners of the competition since it was started in 1993.

The retired project manager has undertaken several computer courses and will receive his award at a ceremony on Friday.

Mr Humphreys undertook the IT skills courses while caring for his wife who suffered a severe stroke in 1997.

I have always been of the opinion that an active mind makes getting old easier to bear

John Humphreys

He said that the lessons helped him to cope with the difficulties of being a carer.

"It was very hard for me to relax because I was caring for my wife," said Mr Humphreys.

"So I took up some computer classes as a way of relaxing and I really enjoyed it.

"I have always been of the opinion that an active mind makes getting old easier to bear.

"When you get old you get all sorts of aches and pains, but the mind is very important and if you want to enjoy old age, like I do, you have got to have a bright and shiny mind.

"You must keep the mind active," he said.

Mr Humphreys said learning keeps his mind active

The awards ceremony which is being held on Friday in Cardiff's City Hall, marks the start of Adult Learners Week.

A certificate will be handed to Mr Humphreys, who has said that he wants to continue learning new skills.

"I knew I had been put forward for the award but I was absolutely surprised and delighted when I heard they had chosen me," he said.

"I never imagined that something I did for relaxation would lead to this award.

"I am going to keep on learning new things and hope to learn Spanish.

"I have cousins who are Spanish nationals, and it is my intention to learn their language so that I can converse on an equal footing.

"I also intend to continue learning about the workings of computer packages," he added.