Gwen’s a tireless charity stalwart
A PENSIONER who has volunteered at a charity shop for more than 25 years has been awarded this week’s Bouquet of the Week.
Gwen Davies from Treharris has volunteered at the Ty Hafan shop on Taff Street in Pontypridd since it opened 26 years ago. Before that, she helped raised money for another charity for four years.
But Gwen says it’s her love of meeting people and helping the children at the hospice in Sully that has kept her going.
“I worked when my husband was alive, and I enjoyed doing it,” the 84-year-old said.
“We were supporting the Treharris male voice choir and we gave them money and we wanted to do something for the children.
“In the beginning, I felt I was helping Ty Hafan, but since I’ve lost my husband, I feel they are helping me a lot. I live on my own now so it gets me out of the house and lets me help people.
“I do two full days a week – Tuesdays and Fridays. I do look forward to them, especially if I don’t get out over the weekend.
“I’ve got loads of friends – the customers as well as the volunteers. I’m here for the children and myself.”
Bev Evans, deputy shop manager, wanted to thank Gwen for all her help and dedication over the years.
She said: “I wanted to nominate the wonderful Gwen Evans, who has worked tirelessly to raise both funds and awareness for Ty Hafan. Gwen started her Ty Hafan journey with our founder Suzanne Goodall over 30 years ago.”
Gwen said she was delighted when she found out she had won the flowers.
“I appreciate it very much,” she added.
■ If you know someone who deserves an Echo Bouquet of the Week, email your nomination, with reasons, and your name, address and telephone number to echo. newsdesk@walesonline.co.uk or you can write to South Wales Echo, Six Park Street, Cardiff CF10 1XR. Usual Media Wales terms and conditions apply, and all nominations must agree to be photographed.