Pride of Guernsey: 'Exceptional grandparents'

In the nomination for the Grandparent/s of the Year Award – sponsored by the Channel Islands Co-operative Society – one of their grandchildren, Rachel Skinner, said they had devoted their lives to caring for their ever-growing family.

'We all have so many happy memories centering around their house, their back garden, wheelbarrow rides, granny's magic roast potatoes and our favourite cake/drink/fruit/ bunch of home-grown flowers waiting for us when we walk through the door.

'They have provided love, support, cuddles and a warm, comfy bed to each one of us at some point.'

Rachel said her son Alfie recently showed his great-grandparents some of his first steps.

'Granny said she would remember that forever and I believe she absolutely will.

'I hope this nomination goes some way in showing them how very grateful we all are for everything that they have done and still do for us all.'

Another grandchild, Dan Pinsard, said the couple had been there for him when he needed them the most.

'They were my superheroes and 28 years later they still are. The time, love and care my grandparents gave me I can never repay them, but I'll always remember and try to live and learn from what they showed me.

'They went far beyond what a normal grandparent needs to do, but they are not normal, they are exceptional.

'Don't be fooled into thinking these are two ordinary OAPs – these are two highly-skilled, well-experienced grandparents that will stop at nothing when it comes to their grandchildren and great-grandchildren and their happiness – they are kind and caring beyond belief.'