I have had the pleasure of attending the 25th anniversary celebrations for Sheppard House in Newent. Run by the Newent Association for the Disabled, Sheppard House was named after the late Trudie Sheppard MBE in recognition for her years of fundraising.
Trudie was disabled from birth and made it her life’s mission to improve conditions for other disabled people. Locally known as Mrs Newent, her work and dedication touched many lives. I am pictured here with Trudie’s daughter, Lynne Mayo, and it was a pleasure to talk to her about her mother’s work.
Located at the top of Gloucester Road, off Onslow Road, Sheppard House offers a safe, purpose-built environment for people with restricted mobility. Newent Association for the Disabled provide an invaluable service to disabled people in the north of my constituency. The support they provide includes a day care centre and community transport scheme via their mini buses and volunteer drivers. I am also pictured with Peter Shaw and Rob Deeley who along with Lee Bruton took part in the Monte Carlo or Bust rally to raise awareness for Sheppard House. In their ex London taxi, they travelled 1200 miles through 6 countries to finally reach Monte Carlo, finishing the rally with 3 lap around the famous Grand Prix Circuit.
It was a pleasure to attend the 25th anniversary celebrations and I had the opportunity to talk to many wonderful people who dedicate their time to improving the lives of disabled people as well as some of those who benefit from the services provided there.
If you would like to contact or volunteer for Newent Association for the Disabled, they can be contacted on 01531 821227.