Good neighbour Pearl hopes Scrivens Opticians award can inspire others
A Scole 80-year-old has been recognised for decades of community service by becoming the first Norfolk recipient of an award.
Pearl Fisher was overjoyed to learn she won a Community Hero Award – chosen by Scrivens Opticians in Diss – for her selfless approach.
Known for her tireless support of elderly neighbours, Mrs Fisher assists with medical appointments, organises social activities, including dominoes afternoons, helps with gardening and arranges weekend outings.
She said: “My philosophy is ‘you get back what you give’, and I thoroughly enjoy supporting my neighbours.
“Seeing the impact of my efforts – the smiles on my neighbour’s faces or getting a thank you from a local charity –brings me so much joy“
“It is my way of giving back for all the good life has given me. I just hope this award inspires others, young and old, to look out for one another.”
After leaving grammar school in 1970, Mrs Fisher trained as a nurse, specialising in caring for physically disabled children, before moving into orthopaedic, general and occupational nursing.
She later served 32 years on her parish council and spent 15 years as secretary of the Older People’s Forum.
Mrs Fisher is an active member of her local gardening club, hosting afternoon tea gatherings in her garden.
She and her husband, Terry, have lived in their self-built Scole bungalow for 58 years since marrying in 1967. They have three daughters and six grandsons.
In August, when Mrs Fisher celebrated her 80th birthday, a number of guests from her local community attended, with many becoming like extended family.
“I was really shocked to receive this Scrivens Community Hero nomination and want to thank the team for making the presentation such a special occasion,” she said.
“Fundraising and helping others has always been my passion.”
Staff from the company’s Diss branch presented Mrs Fisher with the accolade, along with a luxury afternoon tea hamper.
Branch manager Joanne Batchelor said: “During one of Pearl’s regular hearing check-ups, our audiologist, Trevor, learned about her extensive community work.
“Pearl has been a customer for over five years, and we are delighted to recognise her countless acts of kindness.
“She demonstrates daily that small gestures make a big difference.”