A ROSS-ON-WYE volunteer who put serving the community above her tragic loss has been recognised at the Sue Ryder Incredible Colleague Awards.

Marilyn Teague, who has worked at the shop for more than three years, recently lost her son to cancer aged only 46.

Shop manager, Pauline Fosbery nominated her in the ‘highly commended’ for the overcoming obstacles category in recognition of how she has dealt with the tough times in recent years.

She said: “Marilyn lost her son recently to cancer, aged only 46. After the funeral, Marilyn spotted my assistant manager and I and came over with her amazing smile and said: ‘I will be back! I need you and I need the shop.’

“It was very difficult for her to return as she is very well-known in the town and, of course, everyone was asking questions. But her strength grew and when we heard her laugh again we knew she would be OK.”

Pauline added: “We did not nominate Marilyn just because of her loss, however, but because of who she is, what she does and how she has influenced us.”

Marilyn was one of 68 staff and volunteers nominated for a prestigious volunteer award. The awards ceremony celebrates the achievements of staff and volunteers and recognises those who have gone the extra mile in making an outstanding contribution to the work of the charity.

Pauline added: “Marilyn is just one of life’s diamonds and we are so lucky to have her. She loves to chat to customers and is passionate about who Sue Ryder are and why we raise funds. As a retail manager, I know how important it is that our shops have confident volunteers on the shop floor, and Marilyn is a great example of this.”

The award was presented to Marilyn along with the winners in four other volunteer categories and three for colleagues, at the ceremony, which was held at The Royal Pump Rooms in Leamington Spa.