AN 82-year-old Lampeter pensioner has won a major learning award for transforming his life after a stroke.

Doctors warned Bernard Boon he would die in a year. Seven years on, he says learning to use a computer at the age of 78 changed his life.

Bernard has now been given an ‘Ageing Well’ Inspire! Award in recognition of his dedication to learning against the odds having suffered a severe stroke that left him without most of the sight in his right eye and impaired memory.

But, determined to give himself the best chance of recovery by keeping his brain active, he signed up for computer classes, becoming the oldest person in his local group.

“In the hospital, I was told the best thing to do after a stroke is to look for something new to do, to exercise your brain,” said Bernard.

“They suggested crosswords but I’m useless at them, so I thought I’d give computers a go as I’d never used a modern one.”

Bernard joined computer sessions run in Lampeter by Helen Thomas who helped him buy a laptop, and he’s now a regular at the class where every week users gather at The Mustard Seed café to chat, drink coffee and learn new digital skills.

The Inspire! Awards celebrate the achievements of exceptional individuals, projects and organisations who’ve shown passion, commitment and drive to improve themselves, their community or workplace through learning, often in the face of difficult circumstances.

“The first time I turned on a computer, it was magic,” said Bernard, who moved to Wales from Essex for family reasons.

“I’d never used a laptop before or sent an email. It feels like a miracle to be able to buy my food shopping online, or listen to Chopin whenever I want to. The internet can do many things."

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