Derian House Volunteer Honored at Royal Garden Party

Val Sharp, a long-serving volunteer at Derian House in Chorley, was recently honored at a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace. Her dedication and commitment to supporting families at the hospice have not gone unnoticed. Val has dedicated over 3,000 hours over three decades to this noble cause, making her the longest-serving volunteer at the charity. The event, attended by members of the British royal family including Prince William, was a memorable day for Val and her husband John. Despite the rain, guests’ spirits remained high as they enjoyed tea, sandwiches, and cake under the marquee. Val had the opportunity to explore the beautiful 40-acre gardens of Buckingham Palace and even met other charity volunteers and members of the armed forces. Frances Lees, volunteer coordinator at Derian House, expressed her gratitude for Val’s invaluable contribution to the hospice. This heartwarming story showcases the importance of volunteering and the positive impact it can have on communities.