The Communicare team have paid tribute to 82-year-old Wes Philp, their longest-serving volunteer.

He joined the organisation, which aims to end loneliness and isolation in the city, within weeks of its formation in 1991 and was a stalwart supporter.

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Communicare manager Annie Clewlow told the Daily Echo: "Wes will be very sorely missed by us all in a variety of ways, including his down-to-earth advice.

“He was presented with a long service award last year. His son Matthew and daughter-in-law Leanne said he was incredibly honoured and showed it off to family and friends."

Volunteer David Glenn added: "I used to go fishing with Wes and he was very patient. He always put the worms on the hook for me, as he knew I was too squeamish.

"I never did become any good at fishing but looked forward to our trips, as Wes was always very good company.

“He told me years ago about his Communicare volunteering and I was so impressed that I decided to join too! More than ten years later and I am still volunteering.

“Wes was a role model for me. His faith shone through in the way he lived his life, always putting others before himself. I am so glad to have known him and counted him as a good friend and mentor.”

The charity benefitted from funeral donations to the tune of £770.

Communicare's services are staffed by committed, kind-hearted volunteers, known as Communiteers.

Annie adds: “Wes was there at the beginning, one of our first Communiteers. Sadly, those who can remember the start of our charity are now dwindling in number and we were indebted to Wes for all the memories he shared with us from those early years.

"More recently, he shared with us all the goings-on with his two young granddaughters. 

"His family and friends here at Communicare are going to miss him tremendously.”

The charity is currently supporting around 600 people with tasks including telephone befriending, transport for essential appointments and assistance with shopping.

Communicare is always looking for more volunteers. Find out more at communicareinsouthampton.org.uk/volunteer or call 023 8250 0050.

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