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Stranraer Pensioner on Honours List

DOROTHY GORMAN has helped people all her life - now the Stranraer pensioner has been recognised for her charity by the Queen.

Ms Gorman (78) has been appointed an MBE in the New Year's Honours List and will head off to Holyrood Palace in the next few months to receive her gong.

Working voluntarily she has racked up 108 years' service for five different charities. And the MBE is reward for her service to the community of Stranraer.

She has served for 30 years with the British Red Cross, 27 years with the Arthritic Rheumatic Council, 27 years with West Galloway Voluntary Accident Service, 12 years with the Women's Royal Voluntary Service and 12 years with the Hospital Car Service for whom she voluntarily transported patients in her car.

Ms Gorman, who lives on Leswalt High Road, worked as a domestic helper during World War Two whilst in her teenage years and, since giving up domestic employment in 1967, has concentrated on her charity work. She said this week:

"It's just nice to be fit to do all this - why shouldn't we? I only stopped working with the charities because most of them have age limits.

"I only wish I could be out helping in the towns and villages that have been torn apart by the Tsunami."

The letter informing Ms Gorman of the recommendation for an MBE dropped through her letterbox on 11th November - but the news was only made public on New Year's Eve. Now she is just waiting for a date to be set for her Royal appointment. She admitted:

"The letter came through the door but I never read it until I sat down to my breakfast.

"It was a shock and certainly unexpected. I don't like making a fuss and, to be honest, I think there are others far more deserving than me.

"But it's a nice honour and I look forward to going to Edinburgh."