MARLENE REID
The Centre was named after Marlene Reid of Whitwick who died in October 1986. Although she suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and was confined to a wheelchair, Marlene continued to run the family home for her husband John and their four children, as well as making a full contribution to the life of the local community.
After her husband had come to volunteer, Marlene was involved with Coalville Volunteer Bureau for about ten years. Before long, she was offered the voluntary job of co-ordinating all transport requests which she undertook from 9 am to 5 pm each weekday, except Tuesdays - her "day off". During 1985/86 Marlene filled 3,982 transport jobs.
Marlene was a member of the Management Committee of the Volunteer Bureau and, in 1982, she joined the Steering Group of North West Leicestershire Council for Voluntary Service. In March 1983 Marlene was elected Honorary Secretary to the Management Committee of NWLCVS, a position she held until here death.
Marlene's initiative was also instrumental in the creation of the Standing Committee for Handicapped & Disabled People (HANDSTAND) and its Access Sub-Committee.
In 1983 Marlene was Leicestershire's WOMAN OF THE YEAR. The photograph below was taken at her presentation.
John Reid continues to volunteer and is a Trustee of the Board of NWLCVS.
Marlene - Leicestershire's WOMAN OF THE YEAR 1983