New Mills volunteer invited to Buckingham Palace
Having sewed tablecloths for Buckingham Palace garden parties as a young girl, a New Mills volunteer never imagined she would one day attend as a guest.
Wednesday, 25th June 2014, 7:00 am
New Mills CAB volunteer Lynda Belfield, right, with her mum Margaret Belfield, at a garden party at Buckingham Palace. Photo contributed.
But that is exactly what happened to Lynda Belfield, who started her career as a seamstress, when the Citizens Advice Bureau nominated her in recognition for her tireless work in the community.
As well as volunteering at the CAB, at the town hall, on Spring Bank, for more than 13 years, she is also a member of the Thornsett Primary School's PTA and a volunteer secretary to Thornsett Band, a youth brass band.
Lynda, who was accompanied by her mum Margaret Belfield, said she was "surprised and honoured" to have been be invited to the royal affair.
"We had a superb day, the weather was fabulous, the food lovely, the brass bands were brilliant and the gardens spectacular," she said.
"I never expected that volunteering in my local community would ever get me an invite to Buckingham Palace! There really is so much to be gained by being a volunteer; I have learnt new skills and also made life-long friends."
Every summer, the Queen hosts at least three garden parties at Buckingham Palace, as well as one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, which more than 30,000 people attend, as her way of rewarding and recognising public service. For more information on volunteering with Derbyshire Districts CAB at Buxton, Glossop or New Mills, call Helen Axford on 0844 375 2712 or email [email protected]