WHEN her mother helped form the Mothers’ Union in Ryhill, Audrey Kirk followed in her footsteps.
Now, at the age of 89, Audrey is thought to be the longest serving member in Barnsley.
The Mothers’ Union is an international Christian membership charity which aims to demonstrate the Christian faith in action through the transformation of communities worldwide.
Audrey, who lives in Deangate Care Home, joined the St James’s Church branch in Ryhill in 1951 when she was 24.
On Monday, she was presented with flowers and a long-service certificate by Rev Louise Tinniswood, who is chaplain to the Mothers’ Union in Wakefield.
Audrey’s daughter Janet, her family and representatives of the Mothers’ Union gathered as Rev Tinniswood gave a short service.
The St James’s Church branch of the Mother’s Union was founded in 1927, and Audrey’s mother Ethel Windmill was a founder member, which is what led Audrey to join in 1951.
Although Audrey doesn’t get to the monthly meetings anymore, she remembers the good old days fondly. She enjoyed meeting and chatting with the other ladies, the guest speakers and in particular the annual picnic to Holgate in Hemsworth which still continues today.
She said: “It is an achievement, I’ve really enjoyed the presentation.”
Sue Atherton, Mothers’ Union branch leader for Ryhill, said: “Audrey has been a dedicated member all her life, and her mother before her. I don’t think there is a longer serving member.”
Steve Atherton, St James’s Church warden, added: “Audrey has been associated with St James’s Church all her life and joined the Mothers’ Union more than 66 years ago.
“Over the years she has been a member of the church council, she’s sang in the choir and was the church verger, where she looked after the church.”
