A DROITWICH couple have been recognised for their outstanding voluntary work at St Richard’s Hospice.

Sylvia and Arthur Whittaker were both given a joint Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the Community Recognition Awards organised through Wychavon District Council.

The couple have supported the hospice for more than a decade, with Sylvia working there as a volunteer since 1996, and Arthur joining her in 2002 when he retired.

Mrs Whittaker helps care for patients who come to the day hospice, and helps out at the busy hospice reception, as well as working int he gardens. She also volunteers at Droitwich’s St Richard’s Hospice shop, and organises fundraisers and lunches in Droitwich.

Mr Whittaker volunteers as the driver for the hospice minibus, bringing people who have no access to transport to the day hospice throughout the week, and he also helps out on reception, and with Droitwich fundraisers.

Mrs Whittaker said: “My mum died from cancer almost 23 years ago. She had been referred to St Richard's Hospice by her GP. She was given lots of care and support which helped her cope at a very distressing time. As a family we also received support which was important to us to help mum too. Four years after losing my mum, I decided to become a volunteer. It was the best thing I ever did, and was pleased when my husband Arthur retired and also decided to become a volunteer.

"We both feel privileged as volunteers to support the dedicated staff at St Richard’s Hospice. We never cease to admire the professional way in which they carry out the care of patients with life threatening illnesses and give support to their families. Being a volunteer is very rewarding in many ways. In day hospice we have great fun and it is so rewarding to see the patients enjoying their day and being able to talk to someone other than a family member, as sometimes this can be difficult for them.

“It was a great privilege to receive the award, and to know that volunteering can be so rewarding. It is also an opportunity to make new friends, and we have made many of those. For anyone who is perhaps retiring and would like to do something worthwhile with their time, please get involved with St Richard's Hospice, there is something for everyone, and you can do as much or as little as your time allows.”

Another Droitwich man Colum MacCourt, was also shortlisted for the award for his work at St Richard’s. He has worked there as a volunteer since 2008 giving his time as a chaplain to support patients and their loved ones at both the day hospice, and the in-patient unit, as well as visiting patients in the community.

He also acts as chairman for the Day Hospice Volunteer Forum, and works as an active ambassador for the volunteer team, often helping out with fundraising activities in the community.

Anna Wharrier, volunteer services co-ordinator at St Richard’s Hospice, added: “Sylvia and Arthur have offered so much invaluable support over the years and this award is a just recognition of the dedication, skills and time they have brought to St Richard’s. We are also delighted that Colum was shortlisted for special commendation. Over 1,000 volunteers bring their life skills and experience to St Richard’s Hospice, supporting every aspect of hospice life from patient care and administration, to fundraising and shops. Their contribution is very much appreciated and makes a real difference to patients and their loved ones.”