A recent charity event at El Paraiso Restaurant, Guardamar was a bitter-sweet occasion form members of ECCH as we took the opportunity to say farewell to our founder and President, Dave English, who after 15 years of charity work in Spain has decided to take a well-earned retirement.
To his surprise, we presented him with a book of honour, containing photos and messages from some of the many ECCH volunteers and supporters, plus staff and children from the care home.
We also presented Dave and his wife Annette with a donation in sterling for them to spend on their visit to the Buckingham Palace garden party in June (following Annette’s receipt of the British Empire Medal last year).
Annette had made sure that Dave had his best shirt on for the evening, but he couldn’t resist sneaking off and getting changed for the photo call, still making us laugh! Pictured from left are myself, Marlene, Joan, Dave, Annette and ECCH Secretary Maggi.
Dave and Annette started the Elche Children’s Home charity themselves from humble beginnings, and through their sheer determination, hard work and love for the hundreds of children they have helped, they have made it into the success that it is today.
As well as collecting and delivering items for events, raffles, tombolas, David has raised thousands of euros over the years to provide happiness and love for the children who have passed through the Home. Always smiling, always laughing and spreading warmth and generosity wherever he goes. It has been a true privilege working alongside him.
We are very proud of the legacy Dave has left us and we, as volunteers, will do our utmost to carry on his good work and hopefully make him proud.
All at the ECCH wish you well in your retirement and look forward to seeing you at future events.
