TRIBUTES have been paid to a tireless advocate of support for the elderly in Worcester.

Val Stokes, who died on Monday, June 7, was the longest serving trustee of Worcester Wheels, a community transport service in the city and a former CEO of Age UK Worcester & District.

“It is with deep sadness that I pass on the news that our longest serving trustee, Val Stokes,” said Graham Heath, chairman of trustees at Worcester Wheels.

“Val had been an enthusiastic supporter of Worcester Wheels having first served as a volunteer and later as a trustee.

“Having spent many years involved in charitable works in Worcester, Val was CEO of Age Concern – now Age UK – for some 20 years and was instrumental in the setting up of Worcester Wheels as a separate operation from the Worcester Volunteer Centre.

“I am sure I express the sentiments of all of us at Worcester Wheels that she will be sadly missed and we extend our sincere condolences to her family.”

A statement on behalf of the trustees of Age UK Worcester & Malvern Hills said: “Val was CEO of Age UK Worcester and District for a number of years before her retirement.

“During that time she was instrumental to the development of Age Concern as it was then, expanding the services we provided and the development of our shops in particular.

“She and her late husband Peter, who was our handyman, were both very committed to our charity and to our volunteers.

“We would also like to send our condolences to her family.”

Mrs Stokes had always been proactive in garnering media support for projects and frequently came forward to appeal for help with a wide range of services, including those enabling the delivery of meals to the elderly.

Mrs Stokes was also recognised for 25 years of service to Worcester Wheels back in December 2017. She offered her voluntary support in a range of roles from working in the office through to providing advice as part of the finance and human resources committee.

At the time, vice-chairman John Warham presented Val with a bouquet of flowers and commented: "Val’s commitment to this very worthwhile community facility is commended.”