WHEN Marion Ealham first suggested taking Guiseley's pensioners on an annual day trip to the seaside, people thought she was daft.

"They thought it would never take off and they said I'd never be able to do it," said Mrs Ealham.

"But I proved them wrong and we now take seven coach loads of pensioners on a free day trip every year."

And her tremendous fundraising efforts over the years, along with her friend Joan Belsham, have led to both ladies winning a Wharfedale Community Oscar as a reward for their efforts.

Mrs Ealham has been the driving force behind the Guiseley Senior Citizen's Association since she helped to form it ten years ago and is now chairman, while Joan Belsham joined the association five years ago. Between them they helped to restart the popular Guiseley Festival after a break of over 50 years in a bid to raise money for the association.

The association runs and pays for about seven coaches for the annual trip, which is free and includes meals and entertainment.

It gives older people in Aireborough the chance to get out and about which they may not have otherwise.

They were nominated for our award, which highlights the often unseen work of community-spirited people in our towns and villages, by a group of grateful pensioners from Aireborough.

In their letter they said: "Every year, the Senior Citizens' committee puts in a tremendous amount of work with little or no thanks. They are all marvellous people, but particularly Marion and Joan whose work is an inspiration to all. We are very grateful."

Mrs Belsham, who is responsible for organising Guiseley Carnival every year, added: "My reward has always been seeing the carnival go off without a hitch and people having a good time on the coaches."

Both ladies live in Yeadon.