A DEDICATED volunteer at The Salvation Army's emergency food distribution centre in Darlington has decided it is time to hang up her pinny.

Dorothy Paton, 72, has been supporting people experiencing tough times for the past five year and has been at the forefront of the operation, leading a team of 15 volunteers ensuring that those in the town who are struggling with challenging circumstances do not struggle to feed themselves.

She said: “I volunteered with our food distribution programme because I wanted to help people in need and, as a member of The Salvation Army, I was also tasked with identifying where we can be of support and rounding up volunteers. In my working life, I was based in the office at the Patons and Baldwins wool factory. You have to be very organised in a company that size and it’s helped me become the organised, driven volunteer co-ordinator that I am today.”

Darlington Salvation Army minister Major Marc McKenzie, who leads the church with his wife Major Shirley McKenzie, said: “Our volunteers are our greatest resources in reaching out to our community and Dorothy is no exception. She has worked very hard to organise the weekly emergency food support for the past five years, taking on her shoulders all the responsibility for sourcing food items, arranging rotas and often transportation for volunteers, delivering items to and from our distribution point –this all takes great time and effort.

“We’re sad to see Dorothy retire but we know that the great team she has pulled together will continue to support people who are facing tough circumstances and we look forward to building on Dorothy’s legacy by continuing to develop and adapt how best we reach out to those most in need in Darlington.”

Dorothy’s official retirement was recognised during a church service at the local Salvation Army, where she received a certificate, supported by her team and husband Alec. Throughout the past five years, Dorothy has been supported in her role by her husband Alec – he is also retiring.

To find out how to become involved in The Salvation Army’s work or to attend church services or programme activities, contact Majors Marc and Shirley McKenzie on 01325-380994 or visit the church on Thompson Street East.