For more than 40 years, Margaret Smith has been a familiar and much-loved face at fundraising events for The Prince of Wales Hospice.
Known affectionately by many as “Tombola Margaret”, she has dedicated decades of her time to supporting the Hospice’s fundraising team, helping to raise vital funds that support local patients and families when they need it most.
From community fairs and charity days to Hospice-led events, Margaret is often found running tombola stalls with her trademark warmth and enthusiasm. But her volunteering stretches far beyond the event itself. She is constantly collecting prizes, carefully storing them at home, organising them and presenting them beautifully to help every stall feel welcoming and exciting for visitors.
Her dedication has made her an invaluable part of the fundraising team and someone colleagues and supporters know they can always rely on.
Katie Storey, Community and Partnerships Fundraiser at The Prince of Wales Hospice, said:
Margaret has shown unwavering commitment to the Hospice through her consistent and enthusiastic support of fundraising activities. Whether at local fairs, charity days or Hospice-led events, she can always be relied upon to step forward, give her time generously and ensure each tombola stall is welcoming, well organised and successful.
“Not only does she run them, but she is always on the lookout for prizes, storing them at her house and presenting them beautifully. Her role goes far beyond simply running a stall. She engages with members of the public, helps raise awareness of the Hospice and encourages participation and donations through her friendly approach.”
Margaret has supported the Hospice since it first opened, remaining a constant presence through four decades of fundraising events, campaigns and community support.
Her commitment is perhaps best shown in the moments many people never see, helping to put up gazebos in pouring rain, staying late to tidy away equipment and quietly working behind the scenes to make events successful.
In recognition of her incredible contribution, Margaret was nominated for Room to Reward, a national volunteer-recognition charity that helps charities thank their “Hidden Heroes” with donated hotel breaks. The nomination celebrated the lasting impact Margaret has made through her compassion, generosity and tireless support of the Hospice over more than 40 years.
Katie added:
“What truly sets Margaret apart is her reliability and dedication. A lot of her volunteering is often done behind the scenes, and she does it all with genuine passion for the Hospice’s mission. Her efforts have a meaningful and lasting impact on our fundraising success and community engagement.
“The Prince of Wales Hospice is strengthened by volunteers like Margaret, whose quiet dedication and generosity make a real difference.”
Volunteers play a vital role at The Prince of Wales Hospice, giving their time, skills and compassion to support care across the local community. People like Margaret help ensure the Hospice can continue providing outstanding care and support for patients and their loved ones every single day.
