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Published: 23 October 2009

Thank You to Volunteers

On Wednesday 21 October Papworth Hospital said farewell and thank you to two Bedfordshire couples who have been loyal hospital volunteers.

For the past 12 years, Les and Jean Collins from Cranfield and Bill and Diane Meek from Putnoe have been driving once a week to Papworth to work in the hospital’s shop which is run solely by volunteers. All profit from the Papworth Hospital Shop is used by the Papworth Hospital Charity to benefit patients and their families.

Bill Meek said "Diane and I decided to offer our services as volunteers after I had successful heart surgery at Papworth in early December 1996. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time volunteering in the shop. It has given us a chance to give something back to the hospital and to meet so many different people - patients, visitors and staff, and we are going to miss it."

Stephen Bridge, Chief Executive of Papworth Hospital said “The staff and patients at Papworth Hospital are extremely grateful for the hard work and commitment that Les, Jean, Bill and Diane have provided over the years. The hospital shop is a much used resource for patients, visitors and staff. We are indebted to our volunteers who freely give their time, energy and experience to aid patients and staff and contribute greatly to the ‘patient experience’.

For further information on volunteering at Papworth Hospital please contact Judith Nithsdale, Voluntary Services Manager on 01480 364963 or email Judith.nithsdale@papwporth.nhs.uk