THE recently retired president of a Wirral learning disability charity has been honoured in recognition of his contribution to the organisation.

Birkenhead MP Frank Field visited Wirral Mencap on Friday to present Bernard Bryning with an award for long service.

The 86-year-old has supported the charity over three decades and in that time, has held a number of positions including vice chair, chair and president – a role which he held for seven years.

Bernard has played a key part in steering and developing Wirral Mencap – an independent charity that supports local people with learning disabilities and their families.

He became involved because a personal affiliation to the organisation, with his own son having a learning disability.

As well as contributing to the Birkenhead-based organisation, Bernard has also played a role in the wider picture, sitting on a number of regional and national boards connected to Royal Mencap Society.

Frank Field said: “Bernard is one of those people who has made a real difference in Birkenhead.

“He’s been a powerful driving force in establishing Mencap to the position it holds today, helping individuals with learning difficulties, and their families who support them, but also helping to shape national policy to favour anyone with learning disabilities.”

Chair of Wirral Mencap, Gwen Seller, said: “Bernard Bryning and others like him across the country have contributed to the huge changes we have seen for people with a learning disability in recent years – in terms of their rights, opportunities and the support available for their families.

“Without the hard work and dedication of these individuals we would still be living in a world where people with a learning disability weren’t even afforded the most basic rights.”

As well as his involvement with Wirral Mencap, Bernard was a local councillor for more than 10 years, a governor at Woodslee Primary School and is a retired Justice of the Peace.

During his working career, Bernard was a lecturer and taught applied chemistry at Carlett Park.

He was recognised for his contribution to the community at an awards ceremony held at the House of Commons in 2008.

Ms Seller added: “We would like to acknowledge Bernard’s fantastic contribution and wish him and his wife Ida all the best for the future.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank other past and present board members for their continued support. It’s an exciting time to be a part of Wirral Mencap right now.

“As we say goodbye to Bernard we now look forward to recruiting a new Treasurer to help us shape the future of the charity.”

If you have a background in finance and think you may be suitable for the role, call 0151 666 1829.