Hillary’s always busy doing something

Date published: 31 August 2009


SHAW pensioner Hillary Dawson finds it impossible to sit still and do nothing — which is why she fills her time with volunteer work.

The 75-year-old spent decades as school secretary at East Crompton St George’s — and still helps out even after her retirement.

The grandmother-of-four also volunteers at Clarksfield Primary and helps out at the Sunday school at St Saviour’s Church.

As if all that wasn’t enough, Hillary has run the Girls’ Brigade at East Crompton St George’s for the past 39 years.

There, she helps seven to 10-year-olds complete tasks for badges as well as raising money for various good causes. When she does have a few hours to spare, Hillary enjoys tap-dancing, quilling and water-colour painting.

She said: “I think the worst thing to ever be would be bored.

“It is very important to keep active in mind and body. My family keep me very busy.”

Hillary’s friend Jacqui Hartley and her daughter Megan Hartley — a former member of the Girls’ Brigade — nominated Hillary.

They said: “For the past 30 years, Hillary has worked tirelessly and endlessly as a volunteer and school secretary.

“Her hard work and dedication need to be recognised.”

Hillary added: “I am gobsmacked to be nominated.

“You just do the things you do because you enjoy doing them.

“It is lovely to know that I am appreciated but I think others do more than me.”