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Neil McArthur was preparing for a quiet life in retirement until the call came to help East Cheshire Hospice.
A background in accountancy at a senior level made him the perfect choice to become a trustee in 2019.
His involvement goes much further, though. He and wife Francesca collect Christmas trees and help with parking at the Starlight Walk.
Francesca also volunteers on reception, while Neil is an ambassador and visits community groups to explain about Hospice work.
He also sings in Macclesfield Male Voice Choir who appear at a concert in aid of the Hospice this month.
A new wing at the Hospice and the refurbishment of the Sunflower Living Well Centre were major projects chaired by Neil, using his wide-ranging business experience.
On an ongoing basis that expertise helps support the finance team, led by director Shelley Seabourne.
Neil came in initially to carry out routine office tasks as holiday cover.
He had been expecting to slow down in retirement, having already spent nine years as a trustee at a Manchester adoption charity.
That was until Francesca introduced him to the Hospice.
Neil said: “Francesca volunteered me and I soon realised how fantastic, warm and welcoming the Hospice is for those under their care.
“There are so many facets, from medical, retail, fundraising, volunteers, public sector, and an involvement with organisations large and small.
“One of the first things that struck me was the culture.
“The Hospice is always looking to help more people. The approach is, ‘we’re doing well, how can we do even more and make it work even better?’
“A Hospice can’t predict where income will come from and you need to take care of the present, but we also look towards funding for improvements in the future.
“That’s a whole fundraising stream on its own. The team always think ahead and that culture runs through every department.
“Everyone here is doing their absolute best and deserves our support. That’s why I’ll help park cars and chase round after trees.”
Neil and fellow choristers will appear as guests of a new pop-up choir at their All Men Can Sing concert in Macclesfield United Reformed Church on Saturday, April 18 (7.30 pm).
Neil said: “When you all sing in harmony it’s a fantastic buzz. If anyone’s interested, I’d recommend joining the choir.”
* For more details visit www.maccmvc.co.uk