Artist tells Rotarians how he became a hospice volunteer
From exhibiting and helping organise art events for Shropshire Art Society, a Shrewsbury man has told of how he has also become a volunteer at Severn Hospice.
Speaking to members of Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club, Wilf Langford, explained how his love of art had turned into volunteering on behalf of Severn Hospice.
He is now a volunteer in the Creative Therapy Unit tutoring various workshops for outpatients as well as volunteering at coffee mornings, similarly for outpatients.
Wilf told Rotarians how Severn Hospice had played a significant part in his life following the loss of his wife in 2000. He also helps lead a reader group supporting outpatients.
“It is well known that the benefits of creative therapy through drawing, painting, creative arts and music workshops offer wellbeing to vulnerable individuals.
“The services that Severn Hospice offer can never be under-estimated nor under-valued.”
He said that through various events and exhibitions the society - and also individual members - had raised a significant amount of funds in support of Severn Hospice.
The society will be holding its annual summer exhibition in St. Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury, commencing the last week in June.
Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club president David Morris said Shropshire Art Society was in a similar situation to the club. “He told us they need doers which is the key. Like the art society, we come up with good ideas – but also need people to do them.
''We do hope that the society will not only continue with its good work, but hopefully grow and flourish. From here onwards, we will certainly be encouraging all of our Rotary members to support all of their upcoming events and exhibitions.”
He added: “Clearly, they are one of our county's greatest assets - giving so much added value to our tourism and culture sectors.''
Wilf spent his working life at the Sentinel Works initially when Rolls-Royce were the company in residence, employing 3,000 people and training up to 400 apprentices in its excellent apprentice training school.
At the same time he had always been interested in drawing, painting and creating, joining Shropshire Art Society in the 1970s, becoming chair in 2001 and president in 2016.
Anyone wishing to know more about Shrewsbury Severn Rotary Club can contact gdmw@hotmail.co.uk.
