Monthly Archives: June 2014

George Jackson Bequest

Sadly, George Jackson, who had used Camberley Care since 2005, died last year. Our Administrator, Joan Kerr, represented the charity at his funeral and reported that it was a lovely celebration of his life. On leaving the crematorium at the conclusion of the service, the song “I’m for ever blowing bubbles” was played and bubbles were actually blown by the priest who conducted the service! We have recently been overwhelmed by the news that George made a substantial bequest to Camberley Care in his will and for this we are immensely grateful. Leaving a gift to the charity in a will, whatever the size of the legacy, will be hugely appreciated and put to good use in achieving our aims. It could also lighten the burden of any Inheritance Tax payable on the estate.

Forty Years of Camberley Care 1974- 2014

Camberley Care was formed in 1974 by a consortium of local churches. Originally a telephone helpline, it grew into a renowned volunteer car transport service followed, in the year 2000, by the valued secure subsidised handyman service which has the informal motto “No job is too small”.

We have celebrated the 40th anniversary in two ways. Firstly, on the 19th May, the ladies section of Camberley Heath Golf Club, headed by the Lady Captain Linda Cusack, generously hosted a splendid tea party for many of our clients. We were honoured by the presence of the mayor of Surrey Heath, Councillor Bob Paton who, in one of his first engagements following his election as mayor, enthusiastically joined in the festivities and, during an amusing address, kindly acknowledged the valuable contribution which Camberley Care has made and continues to make to the welfare of the elderly, disabled and vulnerable members of the local community. A photo blog of the event, skilfully created by well-known local photographer Alan Meeks, was kindly posted on the Surrey Heath Residents Network courtesy of Councillor Paul Deach and is still available to view. An article by James Chapple also appeared in the Camberley News and Mail newspaper.

On the 6th June, over 40 volunteers enjoyed an evening cruise on the Basingstoke Canal aboard the John Pinkerton, a wide beamed canal boat operated by the Basingstoke Canal Society. We were blessed with splendid weather and many volunteers met for the first time. Volunteers have, for many years, gathered together at Christmas and it is hoped that a summertime social event will now become a regular feature.