A 103-year-old woman has been recognized as the oldest female volunteer globally for her long-standing dedication at a hospital cafe. Beryl Carr, a centenarian, devotes one day per week at the Friends Café located in Ealing Hospital, London. Beginning her service at the age of 80 in 2003, Beryl has been actively assisting in food preparation and managing the till. With over two decades of contribution, she now holds the distinction of being the oldest female volunteer worldwide, acknowledged by the Guinness Book of Records.
Beryl expressed her immense joy in volunteering, highlighting the social interactions as the most fulfilling aspect. She emphasized the importance of altruism, noting that apart from aiding others, volunteering has also provided her with a renewed sense of purpose. Ann Cousins, the manager of Friends Café, commended Beryl for her exceptional dedication, describing her as a revered figure within the hospital community known for her friendly demeanor.
Born in 1922 during the reign of George V, Beryl endured the hardships of World War Two, including being displaced from her home during the Blitz. She actively contributed to the war effort through various means such as sewing barrage balloons and serving as a fire watcher. Beryl met her husband Bill in 1942 at a dance, and together they shared a 60-year marriage before his passing. They had a daughter named Val, and after Bill’s demise, Beryl relocated to London from Cambridgeshire to be closer to her family.
Reflecting on her experiences during World War Two, Beryl expressed dismay at the current global conflicts portrayed in the media, drawing parallels to her own wartime experiences. Recalling the challenges of rationing post-war, she shared her concerns about the ongoing turmoil reported in the news, evoking memories of resilience during difficult times.
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