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WE ALL NEED A MRS HOBBS School volunteer’s New Year medal for services to education A PENSIONER who volunteers at a school in Basingstoke has spoken about how receiving a medal in the New Year’s Honours list came “right out of the blue”. Maud Eleanor Hobbs, who is known by both her fi rst and her middle names, has been volunteering at North Waltham Primary School over 18 years. Mrs Hobbs, a widow, spends two days of the week at the school listening to children read, as well as helping out with other activities and admin tasks. And, after being nominated by her granddaughter, she has been honoured with a British Empire Medal for volunteering and services to education. “Getting the news that I am to receive the honour of a British Empire Medal came right out of the blue, but I am thrilled,” said Maud. “I thoroughly enjoy the time I spend at the primary school and it is so rewarding to be able to help the children achieve and progress in their learning. It is a fantastic school and I have made many friends there over the years.” North Waltham Primary School’s head teacher, Jeffrey Maidment, praised the impact she has had at the school. “All schools should have a ‘Mrs Hobbs,’ he said. “She undertakes a variety of tasks including sup-
By James Booker news@basingstokeobserver.co.uk
porting those children who are sometimes less engaged in their learning than their peers. “According to my calculations, since she fi rst began volunteering here, she must have heard children reading around 33,000 times. “Mrs Hobbs is an absolute gem and when she gives her fi rst hand accounts of what life was like during the war, the children are totally captivated. “Quite rightly, she is held in extremely high regard by all pupils, parents, staff and governors.” Maud’s husband Michael died on New Year’s Day 1993. They had run a newsagents in Frodsham, Cheshire before retiring. Councillor Roy Perry, leader of Hampshire County Council, added: “I am absolutely delighted that Mrs Hobbs has been recognised for her hard work and good service to the community and I have personally sent her my congratulations on behalf of the council. “People like Maud wholly deserve to be recognised and to receive an honour such as this. “They give their time selflessly with no expectation of reward, and are a hugely valuable asset in their community.”
• Maud Eleanor Hobbs with granddaughter Harriet, who nominated her for the award
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