A HOSPITAL volunteer nicknamed the ‘queen of raffles’ has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to charity.

Eighty-four-year-old Dorothy Summons, from Milford Haven, has volunteered with the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) for almost 30 years, and was recently presented with a Diamond Champion award from the charity for her efforts.

Since her husband Allan died 20 years ago, Dorothy says her volunteering has brought her great pleasure.

“I love it,” she said. “There’s plenty to do, and I love seeing people happy.”

As well as working at the Withybush Hospital tea bar, she also provides a friendly face on the hospital’s welcome desk, runs the Darby and Joan club, organises raffles, and every week visits residents at the Priory Project in Milford Haven - a residential home for people with learning disabilities – where her home-made cakes go down a storm.

“You meet so many people, and I enjoy talking to them and hearing about their day,” she said.

Tea bar manager Ben Williams joined the RVS team last year, and praised Dorothy for often ‘going above and beyond the call of duty’ to help out.

“My first shift, Dorothy made me feel really relaxed, she really knows the ropes,” he said.

Despite being in her 80s, Dorothy said her busy schedule means she has ‘no time for hobbies’, but she has no plans to retire from volunteering any time soon.

Dorothy’s mum lived until she was 104, and this outstanding octogenarian plans to follow in her footsteps and keep busy for as long as possible.

“I don’t know what I’d do without it; I’m going to keep going as long as I can.”

Anyone wanting to find out more about volunteering with the RVS can contact Susan Meister on 07714 898608, or by emailing susan.meister@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.