Charlie Bird receives global award for 'Climb with Charlie' campaign 

Mr Bird came up with the 'Climb with Charlie' idea following his own diagnosis with motor neurone disease to help and show support to anyone suffering from a terminal illness and anyone in a dark place with their mental health.

The campaign has now been given a world public relations award — as best 'Non for Profit' campaign at the Global Public Relations and Communication awards.

Mr Bird, along with his friend Paul Allen and dog Tiger, collected the award from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on Wednesday.

Speaking on the award, Mr Varadkar said: "Charlie has touched the lives of so many people in Ireland who followed his trusted news coverage over the years.

He has given so much to this nation and continues to do so, raising awareness of motor neurone disease and money for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and mental health charity Pieta. 

"Congratulations to Charlie, his wife Claire, their dog Tiger and the whole team behind the hugely successful ‘Climb with Charlie’ campaign on this well-deserved international award."

Professor Justin Green, the chief executive of Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, said: "The ‘Climb with Charlie’ campaign is one that is held very close to the people of Ireland.

Charlie’s enigmatic reporting style won the hearts of the Irish people over the years. 

This campaign has justifiably now won global recognition and cemented Ireland in the history of world public relations."

Mr Allen, of Paul Allen and Associates, the lead organisers for the initiative, said: "The team and I are extremely humbled to be a part of this campaign. After 30 years in business, what better way to volunteer our time and professional services. Charlie’s passion ignited a nation and this award signifies just that.”