LEAGUE of Friends of Yeovil District Hospital stalwart Joan Malpass was presented with a gift to mark her exceptional service over many years.

Mrs Malpass, who recently stepped down from the committee, and husband Nigel were instrumental in setting up the successful League of Friends shop and trolley service at Yeovil Hospital.

Mrs Malpass first became involved in the League movement in 1953 at Aylesbury District Hospital in Buckinghamshire, and when she and Nigel moved to Yeovil in 1962 she worked for the Red Cross at Yeovil District Hospital, joining the League of Friends in 1965.

President Mr David Crossland said: "At the annual meeting in April Mrs Malpass did not wish to be re-elected to the committee, and the chairman and I felt we should mark the event by presenting her with a small gift from the committee to mark our appreciation for the exceptional service she has given to the League of Friends over many years."

Mr Malpass remains a committee member.