18. Robin and Ann Tiller

Husband and wife Robin and Ann Tiller have been fundraising and volunteering for Weldmar Hospicecare since 1992, an incredible 32 years. The couple were involved in helping to organise a variety of events to raise funds for the charity including tea parties, Italian evenings and ‘Meals around the World’. Ann and Robin describe themselves as being very organised people, so helping with the events came naturally to them. Weldmar means a lot to them both, having met a lot of people over the years who have had loved ones cared for by the charity.

“The work that they do is wonderful. Also, they’re going out into the community more and I think that’s very important.“

One of the things they love about volunteering and fundraising is the social side and getting to meet people. Ann also started volunteering at Weldmar’s Swanage shop 15 years ago. She says “Being in the shop, of course is lovely. We have lots of friends in the community, having lived in Swanage a long time and we know a lot of people who come into the shop. It’s always nice chatting with them, and they are always pleased to see you.” The Swanage shop recently moved to new premises with an updated look and Robin says that he thinks the shops have definitely ‘come of age’ and are now attracting more young people into them.