Ewing praises woman who has been part of Barnardo's team for over four decades

Ms Ewing was one of 50 people to attend Thursday afternoon's special event held at the North Church Hall which marked Amelia's retiral after being involved in the setting up of one of the charity's first such facilities way back in 1975.

Little did she know then that she would spend over four decades with Barnardo's helping raise thousands pounds.

The Cowdenbeth MSP said: “I was delighted to be invited to attend the retirement afternoon tea party for local Cowdenbeath stalwart Amelia Howie who has worked in the Barnardo’s charity shop for 44 years.

"The event was also an opportunity to mark the retirement of two of Amelia’s co-workers, Ella Nielsen after 43 years and Joan Shanks after almost 30 years.

“Between the three of them that is well in excess of a century of service to the local communit"y.

Ms Ewing added: “The Barnardo’s shop was established in Cowdenbeath High Street on 19th November 1975. It was to be a pop-up shop for Christmas. Obviously, they did not say which Christmas!

“At the time, it was only the third Barnardo’s shop in Scotland, and there are now over 100.

“Amelia started as volunteer with them then for some 21 years, when she went on to work for Barnardo’s and for many years was Manager of the shop.

“Amelia Howie has shown total commitment and dedication to a very worthwhile cause. She is a stalwart of the community and sits on the Lumphinnans Community Council and is an active member of the Beath and Cowdenbeath North Church and sings with the Choir there which made the church a very appropriate venue for the tea party.

“I have no doubt that the past forty odd years have seen many changes, but what has not changed is the need to provide support to children and young people.

“It really was a lovely afternoon. Thanks to the Church ladies for the lovely home baking and very special thanks to Amelia, Ella and Joan for all they have done to help others, they have my best wishes for a very happy retirement.”