ONE of Penarth's most dedicated volunteers has retired from her post as a stroke support group organiser after 26 years of tireless service - unfortunatley meaning that the group has had to close until a replacement is found.

Penny Evans has been the driving force behind the Penarth and District Stroke Support group for more than two decades and without her - or someone willing to step into her shoes - the group, which has helped hundreds of people in the area over the years, may be unable to continue.

Although the group's 30 plus members - who meet fortnightly in Penarth - would be able to attend groups in Barry or Cardiff, the Stroke Association have said that they hope to be able to continue Penny's stirling work and keep the Penarth group open.

The fact that it is proving so difficult to replace Penny is a testament to how valued she was within the group she helped found.

The Stroke Association recently commended her with an award in recognition of her hard work.

Claire O’Shea, Regional Information and Campaigns Officer with Stroke Association Wales, presented Penny with her award and a letter from John Barrick, Chief Executive of Stroke Association.

Claire said: “The volunteering that Penny has done over the years has been invaluable to stroke survivors living in Vale of Glamorgan.

"Penny has been a huge supporter of ours and she’ll be missed along with the Penarth Stroke Club, but we’re keen to make sure stroke survivors still get the support that they need and would love to hear from anyone that would like to volunteer with us.”

Lowry Griffiths, head of communications at the Stroke Association added: "Penny has been amazing, she hasn't just tirelessly supported the club but she has raised funds many times over the years.

"Unless somebody who is willing to go that extra mile comes forward the group is going to have to close.

"There is still support there for the members but we would like to keep this group open."

Penny said she wanted to thank all the volunteers she has worked with over the years and also individuals and businesses in Penarth who have assisted the group.

"For 26 wonderful years we've been able to support stroke survivors and their carers," she said.

"Anyone willing to take on the responsibility would geta great deal of personal satisfaction as well as being able to support stroke sufferers.

“In Wales there are over 11,000 strokes each year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 65,100 people in Wales living with the effects of stroke which makes support groups so essential."

If you’d like to know more about volunteering please contact Claire O’Shea on 02920 524407 or claire.oshea@stroke.org.uk