Sherburn Sister Act

535. Alma Hodgson
536. Myrtle Hall

Alma Hodgson and Myrtle Hall began in 1976 where they raised funds for their local church restoration by setting up the ‘Sherburn Gala’. This has grown year on year and now helps a variety of community projects – attracting up to 5,000 people annually from surrounding areas, each year attracted by the many activities and procession of floats, raising more than £5,000 every year.

The pair have raised money with the gala through a variety of activities including: 5-A- side football, fun runs, fashion shows, steam engine rides and other activities. This money has been put back into the community; whether it is funding Christmas lights (over the past 20 years), renovating mini buses, funding youth drop in centres or even purchasing land for community buildings to be built on. Alma and Myrtle’s volunteering has constantly supported their area for the past 40 years.

Not only do Alma and Myrtle play a significant role in the organising of the Gala; they also help out in many other community activities. Despite being in their 80’s they continue to attend community litter picks and play a leading role in the town’s Britain in Bloom celebrations. They are also working with a group of people to turn the old school into a community centre.

Alma and Myrtle do all of this volunteering for the love of their village, giving something back – whether it assisting with community organisations or making the town more aesthetically pleasing with flowers and signs – and will continue to do it for as long as they can.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“Alma and Myrtle are both shining examples of the power volunteering has to change communities for the better. For over four decades, these sisters have dedicated their time and energy to fundraising and initiatives that have had a positive and lasting impact on their village. I’m delighted to be able to recognise their service to others by making them the UK’s 535th and 536th Points of Light.”