Ready to retire? No thanks says Val Breen from Wells: "I am only 81."

Volunteering is a way of life for this feisty grandmother who still goes dancing twice a week.

Now the BritishRed Cross have paid tribute to Val for her 40 years of giving time to their charity as a volunteer taking and supporting cancer patients to appointments at the Beacon Centre in Taunton and hospitals in Bristol.

"We received a lovely message for Val from Councillor Denise Denis, Mayor of Wells, which we had framed and presented to her," said their Service Coordinator Freddie Griffiths. "Val was visibly touched by the gesture."

Other tributes to Val from the Red Cross included:

"Val is an incredibly valued member of our British Red Cross volunteer team in her community that she loves for the past 40 years. Her dedication, compassion and commitment to supporting patients and staff have made a lasting impact on countless people over the years."

"We are extremely grateful for her service and are delighted to celebrate this remarkable milestone with her."

"People like Val are truly special."

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She featured on the Red Cross's Oncology Transport Service promotional posters displayed on the backs of buses in Somerset and roundabouts.

"All I have to give is my time," said Val who has also volunteered as an ambulance driver at Glastonbury Festival.

· "The British Red Cross's Somerset Oncology Transport Service is always looking for volunteer drivers to support our local community, just as Val does three days a week, bless her," said Freddie Griffiths.

"Our volunteers help patients travel to and from their cancer treatment appointments, providing an invaluable service to those who need it most. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact me on 01823 273731 for more information."