Exeter couple’s team effort helps Hospiscare re-cycle
Alphington retirees Peter and Mary Collins began volunteering at the Hospiscare Warehouse Shop on Trusham Road when it very first opened in 2012. Every Friday, Peter would repair donated furniture ready for selling in the shops and Mary sorted bags of clothes, sizing them, putting them on hangers then onto racks for distribution.
Peter is also a cycle repair man in his spare time and tells us how his hobby spilled over into his volunteer role: “After a year of the Warehouse Shop being open Hospiscare got permission to recover unwanted cycles from Exeter University and someone was needed to repair them. I was in my element, repairing bicycles of all makes and types. I was asked recently what was the best bike I had ever repaired and the first ones that came to mind were an Eddie Merckx, a hand-built Claud Butler, a classic Pashley ladies' bike (so elegant) and various American bikes. One of the great joys of the work is that you never know what you will get next.
“The repaired bicycles are sent out to various Hospiscare shops and sell well, especially at Christmas. For families who can’t afford a new bike this is a great way to get wheels and support a wonderful cause. We always need new stock so check out your sheds and garages and if an unused and unwanted bike is lurking there take it down to the Hospiscare Warehouse Shop in Marsh Barton and I'll get it fixed and ready for sale. You'll be helping others and freeing up space in your shed or garage.
“I still volunteer with furniture as well as the bikes and am looking for a couple of volunteers to help me. If you think you would be interested let Hospiscare know. If you call in on a Friday, I'll be delighted to show you what is involved.”
Mary is still part of the close knit team of volunteers that sort donated items in the warehouse and there are plenty of laughs had along the way. More sorters are also needed in the light and airy warehouse, so if you can spare a regular couple of hours or a day to share in the camaraderie of a fun and supportive team, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteer opportunities at Hospiscare, please call Vicky or Bob on 01392 688005 or email volunteering@hospiscare.co.uk.
Hospiscare is a local adult hospice charity, providing free, high quality care and support to people with any type of terminal illness, and those close to them, in Exeter, Mid and East Devon. A gift to Hospiscare in your Will helps to ensure the future of the charity in Devon for generations to come.
