Hospiscare hairdresser retires after 23 years

Hospiscare hairdresser Lesley Weeks received lots of hugs and kisses as she retired after 23 years of amazing service for the local end of life charity.

A party was held at the Hospiscare day centre in Dryden Road, Exeter, to celebrate her “fantastic contribution” to Hospiscare – staff and volunteers came along to thank Lesley for her support, friendship and to say goodbye.

Lesley joined as a volunteer, was recruited as a member of staff and ironically says she will return as a volunteer – she just loves collecting Hospiscare name badges! Dr Jim Gilbert, Hospiscare medical director, praised Lesley’s “fantastic contribution” and said she had helped raise the spirits of people when they feel at their most vulnerable.

He paid tribute to Lesley’s years of service providing a comforting ear for patients as they explained their troubles in the confines of the hairdressing salon.

While Kate Few-Singh, Hospiscare director of income, praised Lesley’s fundraising efforts – she has raised more than £30,000 through her numerous sponsored challenges which include walking in the footsteps of the Masai, climbing Machu Piccu and the Himalayas. She has also tirelessly attended every major Hospiscare fundraising event and is planning to continue this.

Lesley said a huge thank you to everyone for making the last 23 years so special and for being an amazing team to work with.