By Isle of Wight Observer
A leading member of the Shanklin Age Concern Fifty Plus Centre has died.
Shirley Tamcken, a founder member of what was originally called the Shanklin branch of the IW Old People’s Welfare Association, Shirley was associated with Age Concern for more than 50 years. The Day Centre, a former greengrocer’s shop came into being in 1975, with Shirley playing a leading role at that time as she has through the many years since.
Heather Whitchurch, secretary, said: “Shirley worked at all the tasks over the many years. If the minibus that needed driving or the tea counter needed staffing – she was enrolled.
No job was too small, but neither were the leading tasks. She was a trustee of the building for most of her life, and,in later years, President, helping when times got tough and always encouraging when activities were going well.”
Hamish Boyd, chairman, added: “Individuals like Shirley are rare and Shanklin and our group are in a better place because of what she contributed. So many members are paying tribute that we are looking at ways we can record her half-century of work to ensure that the Regent Street centre continues to flourish.”
pic: Former High Sheriff, Kay Marriott with Shirley in 2022
Mal Butler