Amanda Robinson (left), senior citizen from Brighton, St Elizabeth, gets her blood pressure checked by an assistant nurse during a treat for the elderly and children organised by Sunshine Auto Parts' Errol Brennan.- Contributed

Errol Brennan, chief executive officer, Sunshine Auto Parts, receiving a plaque from Louis Dennis, principal of the Happy Grove All-Age School, St Elizabeth, in appreciation of his services to the community.- Contributed

Sunshine Auto fêtes St Bess communities

A happy group adults and children gathered on the grounds of the Happy Grove All-Age in St Elizabeth on February 6. As the children played, the elderly waited to have their medical checks. The atmosphere was festive as residents celebrated with music, food and company arranged by one of the parish's favourite sons, Errol Brennan and his company, Sunshine Auto Parts.

Ninety-nine-year-old Wilfred Daley and 106-year-old Cleveland Bartley cut their birthday cake as hundreds sang 'Happy Birthday'. Brennan, who is from Cheltenham in the parish, said the treat was intended to bring residents together.

Brennan expressed the need to give back to the community that nurtured his early beginnings. He lamented the lack of social clubs in the communities that could assist in the growth and development of the youth and appealed to Member of Parliament J.C. Hutchinson, who was guest speaker at the event, to try to address this need. The youngsters performed cultural pieces.

In addition to Cheltenham, residents of Content, Happy Grove, Springvale and Bloomsbury were also treated. The children had their teeth checked and cleaned while the adults had blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol tests. Many also took advantage of the services provided by the medical doctor who was on hand to provide service.

Residents in collaboration with Louis Dennis, principal of Happy Grove All-Age School, presented Brennan with a plaque "for services above and beyond the call of duty rendered to the community". There were loud cheers when it was announced that a proposal was before the St Elizabeth Parish Council for Breadfruit Lane, where Brennan grew up, to be renamed Brennan Lane.

An obviously surprised but pleased Brennan thanked the residents, promising to ensure that his children continue what he has started in the community.