Wigan and Leigh Hospice volunteer Dorothy celebrates her 95th birthday
A much loved Wigan and Leigh Hospice shop volunteer has marked a remarkable milestone
For Dorothy Abbott is still doing her bit for the charity despite having just celebrated her 95th birthday!
Hospice staff and volunteers were keen to recognise Dorothy's special day, celebrating not only her birthday but her extraordinary commitment to the cause.
A familiar and much‑loved face at the Bradshawgate shop in Leigh, Dorothy has volunteered there for almost 36 years.
She first started volunteering in 1990 and has been a constant, friendly presence ever since.
Known for her warmth, humour and unwavering dedication, she has become a treasured member of the hospice community and a familiar figure to local shoppers.
When asked what she enjoys most about volunteering, Dorothy said: "The company. You get so many lovely people coming in and we get used to the same people coming in and having a chat to them.
"And of course, it's great to serve the hospice, it's a really good cause."
Over more than three decades, Dorothy has supported thousands of customers, helped raise vital funds for hospice care, and inspired countless volunteers with her kindness and commitment.
Jane Dutton, retail development manager at Wigan and Leigh Hospice, said: "Dorothy is an absolute inspiration to all of us.
“Her commitment, energy and positivity are extraordinary, and she brings so much joy to our Bradshawgate shop.
“Volunteers like Dorothy are the heart of our retail team – they give their time so generously and make our shops such welcoming places for the community.
“We are incredibly grateful for everything she has done over the past 36 years, and we're delighted to celebrate this very special birthday with her."
Dorothy's milestone birthday was marked at the Bradshawgate shop, where fellow volunteers, staff and regular customers gathered to wish her well and thank her for her decades of service.
She also told all those gathered that she has no plans to retire just yet.
Wigan and Leigh Hospice relies on the support of more than 600 volunteers across its shops and services.
Their contribution plays a vital role in helping the charity raise the £12,000 needed each day to provide specialist palliative and end‑of‑life care for people across the Wigan borough.