Voluntary worker Margaret Maggs from Hordle Volunteer Drivers Group retires at age of 92

A 92-year-old voluntary worker has retired after more than 15 years ferrying people to and from medical appointments.

Margaret Maggs, from Everton, started out as a driver for Hordle Volunteer Driver Group before taking on the role of co-ordinator, liaising with patients to plan their journeys and arrange their pickups.

She said: “I’ve been there so long many patients have become friends. I can recognise who it is on the phone by the sound of their voice. I have absolutely loved working for the group – it has been wonderful.

“I have so enjoyed helping people. I pride myself on the fact that I have never failed to get someone where they needed to be.”

Margaret moved to Everton from Birmingham in 1994. Sadly, just a few weeks before the move, Albert, her husband of 40 years, died.

“It was a huge shock, but I decided to go ahead as it was what we had both wanted,” she said. “I joined the group in 2008 and loved it from the start. I enjoyed meeting people when I was a driver, then chatting to them regularly when I became co-ordinator.

“I got to know people, especially the ladies. I had breast cancer myself and sometimes I would talk to some of them going through a similar thing. It was nice to feel you could support someone at what was a terrible time.

“For others it was just a chance for them to have a good chat about all sorts.”

Within a short time of Margaret joining the group, which covers Everton, Hordle and Tiptoe, her workload had increased by 60%. She has received several awards over the years, including a Good Neighbour accolade in 2012 from Hampshire County Council, recognising her dedication and hard work.

This year she was given a Parish Hero Award by Hordle Parish Council.

“Since I have retired, I have received dozens of cards, gifts and flowers,” said Margaret, who left the group after suffering an eye stroke.

“If it had not been for this I would have carried on as long as I could.”

Margaret hosted two retirement parties for patients and drivers, one in Everton and one in Hordle.

She said: “They were fantastic occasions. I will miss them all very much and working for what is a fantastic organisation.”