WEAVER Vale Housing Trust has paid tribute to one of their longest serving customer volunteers after she retired from her duties.

Mary Ramskill has been a stalwart member of the Trust’s Customer Voice Panel for many years and during that time has been a key figure promoting tenant involvement and ensuring that their voices are heard.

Mary said: “'It's time to step down, relax and let the younger members keep things going now.”

Working as part of the Customer Voice Panel, Mary has overseen a number of changes that have led to improved services for Weaver Vale customers.

Mary’s volunteering exploits have extended beyond Weaver Vale, having dedicated over 40 years of her life to helping others.

Her volunteering journey began by chance when her local community acquired a mini-bus.

Mary, who lives in Crowton, added: “I had a mobile home at the time and no one really knew what to do with the bus. I started off busing the local music groups around and it sort of steamrollered from there.

“Then it was the local football team and various other youth groups in the area. I guess you could say that was the start of my volunteering as I’ve done various bits and bobs since.”

Mary juggled her volunteering work with her job answering the phones at the former Chester Council before her retirement and was also involved with her Women’s Institute and Parish Council.

Gemma Massey, tenant engagement officer with Weaver Vale Housing Trust said: “Volunteers like Mary do not come along every day and she will certainly be missed.

“Mary has been an integral part of tenant involvement over the years, and we cannot thank her enough for her contribution over the years. We wish her a very happy and deserved retirement.”