Davina retired today after 20 years at Sue Ryder, where she was the manager of the Abingdon shop.

Last night volunteers, who have worked with Davina, returned for a party. There was a display of all the fundraising events they had done over the years, including the vintage tea party, when volunteers dressed up as land army.

Davina started as a volunteer in Bicester and then worked between Bicester and Aylesbury and then was offered the manager’s job in Abingdon. Over the 20 years, she kept to the philosophy of selling quality things. The windows are always exciting, and Davina said it is all about bringing people in and making it a welcoming environment.

Claire, who volunteers at the shop, said, ‘Davina has raised over 2 million pounds for the Sue Ryder charity and will be greatly missed by her colleagues and customers. She has been a great advocate of Abingdon.’

Davina’s final day was New Year’s Eve. The next chapter in her life involves helping with grandchildren, and she likes writing poetry and will have time to explore such interests.