Stalwart volunteer, 89, shares 40th anniversary with hospice

For Freda Dunk, 89, was there right at the start and, after four decades of giving her time, she is one of the hospice’s longest-serving volunteers.

Mrs Dunk, from Nether Edge, had gained some experience of nursing during the war and so, as she saw the hospice taking shape at Little Common Lane in Whirlow, she decided she would like to put those skills to fresh use.

She was there alongside hospice founder Professor Eric Wilkes when the new facility opened its doors for the first time in October 1971, and she has been there ever since.

Over the years, Mrs Dunk has welcomed guests including the Duchess of Devonshire, the Duchess of Kent and Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales.

She said: “The Prince and Princess visited in 1984 and Diana was pregnant with Prince Harry at the time.

“The people of Sheffield lined the route to the hospice and the building was especially clean and shiny that day.”

Mrs Dunk added: “I have seen some sad times at the hospice but also many happy ones – and I have always enjoyed seeing patients go home after experiencing the hospice’s expert nursing care.”