ONE of Ealing Hospital's longest serving volunteers has made her return after a year's enforced absence.

Beryl Carr who's 99 years old, enjoyed her first day out in more than a year when she caught up with colleagues at the Friend's Café, where she has volunteered for the past 17 years.

The nonagenarian ditched TV in favour of reading, crosswords and colouring books during the pandemic, but admits it has 'been a very boring 12 months' cooped up in her flat.

She said: "I haven't seen anyone apart from my daughter so it's lovely to get out again.

"The two social events of the year were getting my vaccines so it's lovely to see everyone."

Beryl however won't be returning to work on her usual spot on the cash register just yet, but she's keen to get back into it.

She added: "I originally moved to Ealing to be near my daughter when my husband passed away.

"I didn't know anyone here so volunteered for something to do.

"It is good to be back.

"I feel I am doing something worthwhile and it's nice to chat with people again."