TRIBUTES have been paid to Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Westbury shop manager, Dot Whitehead, who died on New Year’s Eve at the age of 81.
Dot was a well-known and respected figure in the town, having held the position at the shop in Maristow Street since she set it up 15 years ago. In that time, the shop has raised over £1.7million for the appeal.
Dot was invited to Buckingham Palace on two occasions in recognition of her dedication to the appeal. After a public vote, Dot was named as the White Horse News’ ‘Person of the Year 2011’ for her contribution to Westbury.
Prior to the air ambulance shop, Dot also spent around 21 years managing Westbury’s Red Cross shop, bringing her years of volunteering in the town to over 36 years.
Although the shop was Dot’s main project, she also volunteered for other projects in the town including a local lunch club for the elderly and holidays with the charity, Wiltshire Blind Association.
Dot’s funeral was held last Thursday at All Saints Church in Westbury, with donations in her memory to Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Age UK.
Dedicated to the Air Ambulance.
Claire Kelly, head of charity services for Wiltshire Air Ambulance said, “We at Wiltshire Air Ambulance are very sad that Dot has passed away, We are all still coming to terms with this, Dot will be very much missed. She was a very special lady, I personally feel blessed that I knew Dot, I had some fantastic experiences with her. We went to awards ceremonies, and Buckingham Palace together – spending time with Dot was always a pleasure. She was a very inspirational lady who was so well known and liked.”
Peggy Pearce, of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance shop said, “Anything to do with helping other people, she was all for it. She did love this shop.”
Tributes have also been left on Facebook and the town’s online forums including the following; “A great friend and neighbour – hope you and Joe are looking down and remembering your lives together.” “Dot you were a lovely lady.” “God Bless Dot.” “Dot was brilliant, she will be missed by many.” “Dot Whitehead gave with unconditional love… she will be truly missed. She cared about people and we all cared about her. Bless you Dot.” “RIP Dot. You worked very hard for a cause you believed in, and that has benefitted many hundreds of people! May your work continue.”
