A FUNDRAISING stalwart is celebrating bowing out after more than 30 years at a Dorchester charity.

Pamela Seaton MBE has worked with the Dorset Youth Association in various roles since 1981 and she is now retiring.

She has worked for the DYA, which aims to improve the quality of life for young people and children in Dorset, as trustee, chairman and president and gained her MBE in 2000 for services to young people in the community.

She said: “I’ve always been interested in supporting youth services to the extent of my ability because if you get young people going on the right track you can help to create a secure future for them.

"One of my fondest memories is the visit of Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, to the garden party we held at Moreton in July 2013 to celebrate our 70th anniversary.

“He was absolutely wonderful and stayed over time, being most enthusiastic about our work and talking to all 120 young people present.”

As part of commemorations, West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin wrote to Mrs Seaton to congratulate her on her service.

He wrote: “Let me say DYA’s achievements as a charity and your contribution to the Big Society are truly outstanding. Pam is an enthusiastic and hardworking supporter of many national and local charities.”