Daingean duo are Hospice Heroes

Daingean couple Ned and Mary Smyth have been honoured with a Hospice Hero Award for their fundraising dedication. The award was handed over to the couple described as a "great double act" at a ceremony in Dublin's Mansion House to mark the launch of the national Sunflower Days collection for local hospice services on June 8 and 9. Ned and Mary Smyth have been committed to fundraising for the charity for over 20 years. Mary Murphy of Offaly Hospice said the duo are particularly talented when it comes to getting volunteers on boards for events and raising money when times are hard. "Their most striking talent is the immense respect and gratitude that they have for everyone that helps them with their fundraising," she added. "They are meticulous in making sure that all help and contributions are acknowledged and never taken for granted." This year's Sunflower Days will be supported by Irish Pride Bakery, with all money going to local hospice services. Sunflower pins and seeds will be available on the day from collectors for €2, and according to organisers all funds raised locally stay local too. Launching Sunflower Days RTE's Mary Kennedy said support for the cause is much needed in these difficult economic times. If you would like to volunteer to sell sunflower pins on June 8 or 9 you can log on to www.sunflowerdays.ie for more details.