Examiner Community Awards: Inspirational duo brighten up the lives of elderly and vulnerable

TWO men who are greatly enhancing the lives of elderly and vulnerable people around Huddersfield have been jointly nominated.

And they have also bucked the myth that only women can volunteer for the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS).

John Brooke and John Battye are both “inspirational” volunteers for the organisation.

Their visits to the elderly and vulnerable are often the highlight of the week for the people they are visiting.

John Brooke, of Milnsbridge, has worked for the WRVS for over five years. He regularly visits two people with learning difficulties and a woman who has recently been discharged from hospital.

The 50-year-old had to retire early from work as a delivery driver for a plant hire firm due to a fractured spine and has recently been diagnosed with osteoporosis – but his thoughts and time are devoted to helping others.

He regularly takes the people he visits on trips to garden centres, bowling alleys and coffee shops as well as sitting and chatting to them at home.

John said: “The people I visit have become friends and I get a buzz out of helping them to enjoy their lives. It is great to see their faces light up as they enjoy themselves.”

John Battye, 60, of Brockholes, got involved with WRVS three years ago after retiring as a BT engineer.

He visits two elderly people in the Holme Valley for tea and a chat every week, helping them with any issues such as form filling, shopping or collecting prescriptions. He also recently helped one old lady move home.

“I really do enjoy it,’’ he said. “I feel as though I am doing something worthwhile and helping others, which is important.”

John also helps people with debt in his capacity as a support worker for Christians Against Poverty (CAP).

WRVS spokesman Philip Ross said: “John Battye is one of our inspirational volunteers. The impact his visits have on the people he sees is beneficial and so special.

“When the new Home from Hospital service was being set up, John Brooke got involved right at the beginning and helped to form the basis of the new service”.