Eve Birch

ANIMAL lover Eve Birch has spent decades fundraising for charity.

The former home helper has even been presented with gold awards by a pet charity she helps.

Mrs Birch, of Lister Avenue, still helps raise money for the Cinnamon Trust, a charity for the elderly and their pets, as well as for the Leukaemia Research Fund, despite problems with her own health.

In the past Mrs Birch helped with raising funds in any way she could - through sponsored slims, swims, walks and selling produce and greetings cards.

She first became involved with the Cinnamon Trust when she was left to care for a neighbour's cat.

He added: "When my neighbour went abroad I looked after her cat. The lady became ill and I was feeding it for a couple of months.

"The cat was lonely and I was asked if I could find someone to look after it for a while.

"Someone put me onto the Cinnamon Trust to find a foster home, but the lady never did come home.

"The street I live in is very neighbourly and for her funeral we did a collection and the spare money was sent to the Cinnamon Trust.

"I was speaking to one of the ladies on the desk at the trust and lived in Moat Road. She suggested I did some fundraising.

"Having worked with elderly people in my job for 25 years I saw how important pets were for some of them and what a worry it was for them.

"That's why I think the Cinnamon Trust is so important."

Mrs Birch also helped find a home for a Jack Russell which was left in her care following a death.

She added: "I've travelled all over the place collecting for Leukaemia - wherever they have needed someone.

"It gets me out and about and I've met all sorts of really nice people."

If you would like to find out more about the Cinnamon Trust or make a donation contact Mrs Birch on 01342 328786

TO nominate a Community Hero email emily.bridges@essnmedia.co.uk or call the news desk on 01342 322659.