Actor puts spotlight on Frome volunteers and their 30 years of fundraising

A Frome charity shop welcomed a special visitor on Tuesday 15th May to thank a pair of volunteers who have been raising money for a total of 30 years.

Lisa Welsh and Eve Evans both joined the Barnardo’s shop in Kingsway Precinct in 1997 and have since donated thousands of hours, sorting stock and serving customers. In recognition of their ‘outstanding commitment’, Barnardo’s supporter and popular actor Christopher Timothy presented them with certificates of appreciation.

Lisa and Eve hope their own example will encourage others to lend support to the charity. Lisa said, “I was taken aback when I was told I’d been here for 15 years – I never realised it was so long! “I joined because I was semi-retired and liked the idea of working in a charity shop, and approached Barnardo’s because the team always seemed so lively. All of the volunteers come from different walks of life but we all get along and support each other. You soon make friends and it starts to feel like a second home.”

Eve said, “I used to be a customer in the shop and always liked the fact that everyone was so approachable. Some of my own friends had joined as volunteers and kept telling me how much they enjoyed it, so I thought I’d give it a go. You get to know so many new people and really feel that you’re a part of the local community.”

Christopher was appearing on stage at the Theatre Royal, Bath, in ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ but is best known for his TV roles in ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ and ‘Doctors’. A long-standing supporter of Barnardo’s, he has visited many of the charity’s services across the UK. He said, “Barnardo’s shops play a vitally important role in funding work with some of the country’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children.

“These shops wouldn’t be able to function without the generosity and loyalty of the volunteers, which is why I am delighted to recognise Lisa and Eve’s long service. Thanks to their outstanding dedication and commitment, the charity can help children to turn their lives around.”

The Barnardo’s shop is open from Monday-Saturday from 9.00am-5.00pm and always welcomes donations of good-quality clothes, books, toys, games and bric-a-brac. Call 01373 463513. Pictured: left to right, Eve Evans, actor Christopher Timothy and Lisa Welsh receiving their 15 years service certificates