BLANCHE Nicolson is retiring from her position of Practice Development Director at Ayrshire social care provider Hansel after more than 30 years with the charity.

Awarded an MBE for her tireless work for the charity which was founded by her parents Isobel and Tom Murdoch in 1963, Blanche will be leaving her full time role to spend more time with her family.

She will however remain on the board and continue her work championing the rights of people living with disabilities.

Her passion for improving the lives of those around her came from sharing much of her life with her sister Lindy who lived with Down’s syndrome. She has been instrumental in shaping the development of care and support in Ayrshire, and championing the integration of people living with disabilities in the communities in which they choose to live.

In 2014, Blanche received the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award, becoming the first Ayrshire citizen to receive this global recognition.

Gerry Lindsay, Managing Director of Hansel, said: “Blanche has been Hansel’s guiding light for so many years, carrying on the incredible work of her parents and we are so grateful to have had the benefit of her experience for so many years.

“She has worked so hard to transform the lives of our customers, not only ensuring they have the chance to reach their potential but that they have the same choices about the kind of lives they live as everyone else. No-one cares more than Blanche and we are so glad she will continue to be involved with the charity.”

To mark Blanche’s retirement, the charity organised a farewell “memory sharing” afternoon at its Broadmeadows Headquarters in Symington.

Well-wishers, friends and customers were invited to the event which included dancing to local band Rough Cut, impromptu ‘thank you’ speeches and songs from customers, and an entertaining zumba flashmob dance performed by customers and staff.

Blanche added: “To be surrounded by so many familiar faces was very special and I am overwhelmed by all the kind words and wishes. Hansel has been such a huge part of our family life for so many years, bringing so much joy to so many people and I am very proud of its achievements.

“However it has always been a team effort and I know that I am leaving the charity in good hands and that it will continue its pioneering work for many years to come. 

“I feel very privileged to have met so many extraordinary people during the course of my career and I walk away with so many wonderful memories.”

Today Hansel provides support for around 700 customers and their families across Ayrshire.