Tom Wilson

Tom is an inspirational man. Taking up running in his early fifties, he went on to complete several marathons, including the London marathon, in commendable times of just over four hours. But while this personal achievement and underlying determination impress, it is Tom's unswerving commitment to help others that inspires. He is always there to offer a helping hand when others would pass by; nothing is ever too much trouble. Tom was one of the founders of the Third World Run, a charity run held annually in Belfast, and he continues to be an active driving force behind the event. The Run, now in its 25th year, has raised substantial funds for charities including Oxfam and Concern. In more difficult times in Northern Ireland, Tom was a strong advocate for peace and positive cross-community relations. He was a founder member of PACE (Protestant and Catholic Encounter), an organisation established to foster harmony and goodwill between communities, and never gave up hope of a brighter future for Northern Ireland. Now approaching eighty, Tom still behaves like the man of fifty who took up marathon running. I'm proud he is my Dad. This nomination is my way of saying thank-you to Tom on behalf of his family, friends and community for the countless ways in which he has helped us all. It is his turn to have a little of the limelight. I was not actually a founder member of the Pace organisation, although I was an active member for many years and also served on its Management Committee.