AFTER 12 years of loyal service, staff at a charity shop in Haverfordwest have said goodbye to one of their most loyal volunteers.

Nan Hodgens, 70, has been volunteering at the Barnardos charity shop on High Street every Wednesday for 12 years.

But she has now decided to retire from volunteering, so she can spend more time on her main hobby, lace-making.

“She has driven up from Milford Haven every Wednesday and has been a very supportive and helpful volunteer, and will be very much missed by the teams and customers who have come to know her over the years,” said shop manager Judith Williams.

Nan started helping out at the shop after her husband died. “I didn’t want to stay at home and vegetate,” she said.

Initially hoping to help out with occasional repairs at the shop, Nan was soon drafted into sorting through donations and serving on the tills, and has been there ever since.

Nan said she had enjoyed her time at the shop, and that the most rewarding part was helping a children’s charity.

“All the staff here are wonderful, so welcoming,” she added.

Described by her co-workers as loyal and dedicated, Nan said she believed that if you “take something on you should do it to the best of your abilities”.

Nan’s last day was December 18, where she was presented with a stunning bouquet of flowers to thank her for all she has done.

Asked how she felt about leaving, Nan said: “I will miss it, but perhaps I will have more time for hobbies now.”