Centenarian Noel joins a unique club of recipients

A MEDAL to commemorate turning the grand ole age of 100 was presented to Noel Alcock, who recently celebrated his milestone birthday in Beechwood Nursing Home, Leighlinbridge.

Noel was presented with the special commemorative medal by cllr Fergal Browne, cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council and vice-chairperson of the local authority’s centenary committee. The council presents a specially-commissioned medal to anyone who reaches the magic number of 100 years in the county.

“When we set up the centenary committee in 2016, it was decided that we should present a medal to anyone who reaches the age of 100 so I was absolutely delighted to present Noel with the medal,” said cllr Browne. “I’d also like to compliment the staff of Beechwood Nursing Home and the great work that they do there.” Noel was born and raised in Graiguecullen and was married to Anna (née) Byrne, who sadly passed away in 2020. Noel was able to live independently until he moved into Beechwood in recent times.

He spent his entire career working for Corcoran’s Mineral Waters and had a lifelong interest in gardening, model train sets and water safety, having taught generations of youngsters how to swim. Noel also loved music and so managed a showband, The Vikings, where his brother Tommy played the saxophone.

Noel’s family threw a 100th birthday party for him in December, when he was presented with a pamphlet outlining the main events of his long and remarkable life.