Volunteer work at Bluebell Wood brings joy to retired Morag

Morag Sanderson, who joins the kitchen staff in preparing meals for families and staff, told her story to mark Volunteer’s Week next week (1-7).

The former geography teacher (67), who worked at Aston Comprehensive between 1974 and 2004, said: “I had wanted to do something very different to what I’d done at work.

“I was up for stepping out of my comfort zone. But I was a bit worried. Suddenly I’d gone from cooking for me and my husband to helping with lunches for 45 people.”

Morag, a grandmother and mum of two from Dinnington, had previously volunteered with youth services and Riding for the Disabled.

Bluebell Wood caught her attention when husband Bob took up the captaincy of Blyth Golf Society three years ago.

She said: “He chose the children’s hospice as his charity for the year. I went with him to present the money raised and thought it looked a lovely place.

“When they sent a thank you letter, there was a leaflet about hospice volunteering and I decided it was for me.

“I get such joy from knowing that every little task I do helps families who are going through very difficult times.

“The hospice gives an invaluable service and I am very proud to be a part of that. I’m not planning to retire from this job.

“I’ve loved every minute. The kitchen team are absolutely lovely to work with, we have fun and I enjoy meeting the families.”