THE HEAD of a leading British charity is stepping, only to take up the mantle of another worthy cause. For 35 years Brian Dowling, of Meadow Croft, Bickley, has led Counsel and Care (CC), a `small specialist charity' with a big reputation. It helps over 20,000 elderly people each year, providing information and help with nursing and residential care. Mr Dowling was thanked and praised for his long service by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester at the annual meeting of CC on June 3.

Mr Dowling said: "CC has done a very good and caring job for hundreds of thousands of elderly people over nearly 50 years, and I have been glad to have played a small part."

"As with all charities, but particularly smaller ones, CC has to work very hard at raising the money it needs to continue and expand its vital work, and I shall look forward to concentrating on that aspect of the charity's affair".

Now 71, Mr Dowling, is ready for his next move. He is to take on the challenge of fundraising for Counsel and Care. Mr Dowling is described as `not just a sitting chairman'.

He set up a 70-mile bike sponsored bike ride on his 70th birthday from Bromley to the home of CC's founder Joceline Graham, in Hythe, Kent.

Mr Dowling inspired dozens of plucky pensioners to do the same ride in a bid to raise funds for CC and £10,000 rolled into its coffers. Next year Mr Dowling plans to do it again on his 73rd birthday, and will be joined by his son and grandson.

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