Hospital volunteers enjoy Buckingham Palace garden party

Long-serving volunteers at Shropshire’s hospitals have been recognised with a visit to a royal garden party.

Terry Seston, 91, attended the garden party with his wife Babs after volunteering with the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) for around 15 years.

The visit was recognition of their many years of dedicated service supporting patients and visitors.

Mr Seston volunteers at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital (RSH) as part of the ‘Meet and Greet Team’, welcoming patients and visitors, helping them find their way around the hospital and offering reassurance.

Mrs Seston also previously volunteered at the hospital for many years.

Mr Seston said: “It was a wonderful day, a great opportunity, and a real privilege to have been invited. Babs and I thoroughly enjoyed what was a very memorable occasion.

“It was also a pleasure to meet others who have given their voluntary time to a wide range of organisations.

“I would also like to thank SaTH for supporting our nomination to attend such a special day.”

Mr and Mrs Seston travelled to London for the event with support from their family, making the day a special occasion for everyone involved.

Julia Clarke, director of public participation at SaTH, said “Terry and Babs represent the very best of our volunteers. Their commitment, kindness and dedication make a real difference to patients, visitors and staff every day.

“Volunteers play a vital role in supporting patient care across the Trust, and it is fitting that Terry’s contribution has been recognised in such a special way. We are incredibly grateful for everything he has given over the years and are delighted that he and Barbara were able to enjoy such a memorable occasion.”

Terry and Babs were joint winners of SaTH’s first Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016.