THERE is a double cause for celebration at the Petersfield branch of Save the Children.
Not only is it this year’s best performing branch of the charity throughout the UK, but one of its stalwarts has been given a Queen’s Birthday Honour this week.
Prue Scurfield, of Petersfield, who has been a tireless supporter of the branch for 40 years, has received a British Empire Medal.
This is for her services for fundraising for Save the Children, with more than £40,000 raised this year, putting Petersfield top nationally.
A modest Prue, who has held various positions within the branch, including chairwoman, said she was “amazed but thrilled” to earn the accolade.
Branch chairwoman Prue Rushmer added: “It is a huge honour for her and thoroughly deserved.
“Everyone said it was long overdue as she has been like a mentor for the branch. It is wonderful news.”
At a regional Save the Children conference in Southsea this week, attended by around 100 people, Prue Scurfield was praised for the Queen’s honour and her contribution to the charity.
She retired from the committee last year, but continues to be a supporter of the branch which is now in its 60th year.
Prue Rushmer was delighted too that the branch had raised the most money nationally, but she wasn’t surprised.
“Petersfield is a very charitable town and people have always been very generous to us,” she said.
There was a great team of volunteers who worked hard to put on regular annual events.
These include The Big Sale at the Festival Hall in April, which this year raised more than £25,000.
Other events are a Bridge Day at the Tithe Barn in September, a two-day Gift Fair in October, and, new for this year, Hampshire Police Choir in a recital at Petersfield’s Methodist church on October 21.
For more information visit www.petersfield-savethechildren.co.uk