A 103-year-old woman has earned the title of the eldest female volunteer globally due to her extensive involvement in a hospital cafe over many years. Despite her advanced age, Beryl Carr dedicates one day each week to volunteer at the Friends Caf located in Ealing Hospital, in west London. Beryl’s volunteer journey began when she was 80 years old in 2003, where she started by preparing food and managing the till. Now, with over two decades of service, Beryl has been officially recognized in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest female volunteer worldwide.
Expressing her joy in volunteering, Beryl emphasized her enjoyment of the social aspect, stating that she finds fulfillment in interacting with others rather than spending her days in front of the television. She believes that volunteering not only benefits others but also brings personal satisfaction, describing it as a rejuvenating experience that she recommends to individuals of any age.
Ann Cousins, the manager of Friends Caf, commended Beryl for her exceptional dedication, highlighting her as a prominent figure within the hospital known for her friendly demeanor. Beryl’s life story dates back to 1922, a time marked by significant historical events such as George V’s reign, Gandhi’s activism, and the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb by Howard Carter.
Having endured the challenges of World War Two, including being displaced from her home during the Blitz, Beryl contributed to the war effort through various roles like sewing barrage balloons and serving as a fire watcher. In 1942, she met her husband Bill at a dance, and they shared 60 years of marriage before his passing. Together, they raised a daughter named Val, prompting Beryl to relocate back to London from Cambridgeshire to be closer to her family.
Reflecting on the current global landscape, Beryl expressed distress over the prevalent conflicts highlighted in the news, drawing parallels to her experiences during the Blitz in London. She recalled the hardships of wartime rationing that extended well beyond the war’s end, emphasizing the enduring impact of such challenging times on individuals and society.