A much-loved shop volunteer says she is proud and humbled to have clocked up three decades of tireless support for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Olive Duffield is part of the fabric at the charity’s Long Stratton store and been helping there since early 1995, initially working at the former shop that raised funds for the old Quidenham hospice.
Now 85, Olive remains as passionate as ever about EACH and was delighted to have her longevity recognised with a special commemorative badge. The team also presented her with a card and gift, to acknowledge her remarkable achievement.
“I didn’t realise it was 30 years, but was very pleased to be told,” said Olive, who helps out every Friday morning.
“It was a lovely surprise, and I consider myself lucky to still do what I do.
“I enjoy it very much and am blessed to work alongside some lovely people, staff and volunteers, as well as so many wonderful customers.
“I’ve known lots of them for years and seen children grow up, now coming into the shop with their own little ones.
“It’s a real privilege, and, while I don’t like a fuss, I feel proud to have reached this milestone.
“It’s funny to think about all the days and hours I’ve spent volunteering in those 30 years. It’s been such a big part of my life.”
Olive has no plans to stop volunteering or slow down.
“I still enjoy it as much as ever and am proud of myself for keeping going,” she said.
“I love being on the till, meeting new people and serving regular customers – many of whom feel like friends.
“The social aspect of volunteering is very important to me.
“Being in the shop is good for me, and it’s definitely something I want to do as long as I possibly can.
“It gets me out, and I like the sense of helping others. I’d much rather do something positive and productive with my time than just sit at home.”
Olive says volunteering is something she would recommend to anyone.
“I’d definitely encourage people to get involved,” she said.
“I feel lucky to be able to help and wouldn’t want to be at home all the time. I’d rather get out and keep my mind active.
“It’s a great thing to do – for that person individually, for their community and for this great charity. Like me, I know they would get a lot out of it.”
Olive, who celebrates her 86th birthday next month, is married to Michael and lives in Tharston.
The couple have four children, four grandchildren and are also great grandparents.
Long Stratton shop manager Rachael Fretter described Olive as an “inspiration”.
“She’s an amazing lady and much-loved member of our team, who has made such an enormous contribution over the course of many years,” she said.
“It’s an incredible achievement, although she’s so humble and casual about it.
“I know she doesn’t like a fuss, but we can’t let a milestone like this go without marking the occasion.
“It’s amazing, and we wouldn’t be able to function without people like Olive.
“Our shops only operate because of kind, selfless people like her, and I just hope I’m as active and sprightly when I’m her age!”
To find out more about volunteering in Long Stratton, pop in for a chat, call 01508 531507 or email Rachael via Rachael.Fretter@each.org.uk
For more information about volunteering more generally, email volunteerservices@each.org.uk or click here.
