We are pleased to announce the appointment of Toby Jones as one of our Patrons.

Actor Toby recently played the part of Captain Mainwaring in the film ‘Dad’s Army’, part of which was filmed in Beverley, and he is currently starring in the BBC One TV series ‘The Secret Agent’.

He joins the charity at a time when it is experiencing increased demand for its services in providing a caring and supportive community transport service for people who cannot easily use other forms of transport, ie elderly, and disabled people, and those who are rurally isolated.

Speaking of his local links to the town of Beverley, and his appointment as Patron, Toby said: “I am very proud to be Patron of such a worthwhile and dynamic charity. Although my recent association with Beverley was related to filming DAD’S ARMY, my family has long standing roots in the town. My mother Jennifer and my late grandfather Reginald lived in and loved Beverley. I hope to help this wonderful charity continue its excellent work.”

CEO of Beverley Community Lift, Jan Stainforth, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Toby has accepted the role of Patron of our charity - we are great admirers of his work - he is such a talented actor! The fact that Toby can find time in his busy schedule to assist us is gratefully appreciated. He has agreed to lend his name to Beverley Community Lift to support us and help raise awareness of our charity’s services.”

Jan continued: “Toby joins us at a time when we are experiencing increasing demand for our services, especially in rural areas. We always need more volunteer car drivers and I would encourage anyone who is interested in helping us to help get elderly and disabled people out and about come and have a chat with us - the kettle’s always on!”

I’m Shirley Harrison, a local artist from East Yorkshire, England. My work is called 'Shirley and Scruff'.

I am delighted to become a patron of Beverley Community Lift. I have only praise for this amazing organisation and the wonderful people. I know personally as my wonderful Mum 'Florence' sings their praises too. She has met many wonderful people through this great local service that's run in Beverley. She has also introduced family and other friends to this service, so they can experience how wonderful life can be. Here's to you and your amazing people at Beverley Community Lift. Thank you for your wonderful friendly service you provide to people that really appreciate you.  You give people hope too xx

I paint with watercolours on a small kitchen table in my cottage when the weather allows. I also paint on 'Le Patio' on a small table outside. The girl in my paintings is me as a child the dog Scruff my much loved pet who lived for 16 years; he ended up with three legs following an accident continuing to live life to the full.

For many years I just painted for myself, family and friends, a few years ago I was encouraged to place a small collection of my framed prints in a local restaurant. People wanted to buy these prints; I shall never forget how wonderful that felt. My life had changed significantly at that time and I had to borrow some money then to fulfil the order, since then 'Shirley and Scuff' has changed my life. I paint every day, I have produced over 90 Shirley and Scruff collectables all originating from watercolours, these are produced as Originals, Limited Edition Signed Prints, Cards and a number have been made into textiles in the form of Tea Towels, Aprons, Oven Gloves, Canvas Bags and Make Up/Pencil Cases, Peg Bags.