Shirley is Stourport Forward’s lead volunteer. She says:
“When I was growing up as child, my lovely Dad would take me off on little adventures and at that time I lived close to the canals around Stourbridge. He was a great storyteller and as we walked along the tow path would tell me stories about “the old days” and the factories & wharf’s that sprung up along the canal side. Little did I know that I would be doing the same thing 60+ years later telling youngsters & adults about the Canal’s rich history.”
“My working life was within Telecommunications, Land Consultancy & Special Needs Children, which I feel has supported me in the type of volunteering I do.”
“I came to Stourport 8 yrs ago not knowing a soul but living by the Canal Basin reminded me of those happy days as a youngster with my Father. Then, one day I heard this chugging, looked out of my front door and saw “Bramble” going by and that was it! She reeled me in hook line and sinker! When she got back down to her moorings I popped down to have a chat with the crew. Personally, I think they were part of the “Press Gang” community that was around Stourport in the early 1800’s (but that’s another story!) They recruited me there and then and before I knew it I was a Stourport Forward Volunteer. It was by far one of the best days of my life and feel now that I am very much part of what is a very special Community which has my heart and become my home. I love the story telling and engaging with people not only from Stourport but from all over the country. I feel very privileged to be part of my SF volunteer family and our Heritage Inland Port Community. I still have many amazing facts and stories to tell about Stourport’s rich history and who knows what other little gems are around the corner and awaiting to be found out and be told!”
