MEMBERS of Newton Abbot and District Civic Society were treated to an inspiring insight into a lifetime of community service when Helen Cowell MBE delivered a talk entitled ‘My Life in the Community’.

The presentation, held at the society's June meeting, charted more than five decades of voluntary work in Bovey Tracey, during which Helen has devoted her time and energy to a remarkable range of organisations, charities and community groups.

Helen explained that her volunteering journey began when her four children started school and she decided to become involved in local community work.

Her first role was with Meals on Wheels, delivering hot meals to housebound residents in the Chudleigh Knighton area.

It was through this that Helen became involved with Leprosy Mission Great Britain after meeting local supporters of the charity.

She has continued to support its fundraising work for many years and remains actively involved today.

As recently as last year, members of her Bovey Tracey club heard first-hand accounts from people who had experienced the effects of leprosy.

Her commitment to community life soon extended to the Bovey Tracey Carnival, where she served on the committee for many years.

Helen played a key role in organising fundraising events, managing charity collections and helping to decorate the Carnival Queen float alongside members of her family.

Entertainment has also been a significant part of her community work.

Helen joined the Bovey Bells singing and dancing group shortly after it was formed, performing across the UK and in the United States, going on to establish the Tracey Troupers majorette group.

For the past 50 years she has also organised coach holidays, taking groups on Christmas shopping weekends to London, as well as overseas.

The trips, she said, have provided enjoyment and lasting memories for countless people over the years.

Helen has been closely associated with the Bovey Tracey Over 60s Club since 1976 and has served as its chairperson for the past 25 years.

Originally founded in 1961 as a small weekly gathering for local seniors, the club has grown into a thriving organisation offering guest speakers, social events, parties and excursions throughout the year.

Her outstanding contribution to the community was recognised in 2011 when she was appointed an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours for services to the people of Bovey Tracey.

She described the memorable occasion when she received the honour from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle, watched proudly by her four children.

More recently, she was awarded a 50 Years of Service badge by the Royal Voluntary Service.

Following the talk, Civic Society members enjoyed asking questions and viewing a collection of photographs and memorabilia documenting Helen's remarkable contribution to community life.

Thanking her for an informative and enjoyable presentation, members agreed that her decades of dedication and service have left a lasting legacy in Bovey Tracey and fully justified the national recognition she has received.