AN inspirational volunteer who has dedicated more than 80 years to helping those less fortunate will celebrate her 100th birthday next Wednesday.

Marjorie 'Peggy' Maskrey MBE has worked at Charles Thompson's Mission in Birkenhead since arriving on its doorstep with her mum Dolly Monaghan in 1928.

She is part of a team of mission volunteers and currently spending all of her time at home as the mission building is currently closed because of the pandemic.

Her proud niece Patricia Hennessy told the Globe that Peggy is really missing the place and cannot wait to get back.

"She was the most inspiring influence in my life as a child and since.

"She has always been so energetic and enthusiastic In her voluntary work as well as her private life.

"We all wish her a wonderful 100th birthday and look forward to a time when all family members friends from the mission & all people around the world can help her celebrate properly.

"We had a party organized at Oxton cricket club, we look forward to when it can happen, hopefully in the not too distant future."

Peggy's work received royal recognition in 2018 when she was awarded an MBE for her services to the community in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Last year she was nominated for an Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons Active Agers category, award honouring the nation's unsung heroes.

Her dedication to the task has earned a place in the final 10 selection stage of the Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons 2019 Active Agers category.

At the age of 16 Peggy started volunteering there and has served thousands of meals to the area’s needy.

The mission plays its part in helping those finding themselves in this situation.

However, because of the pandemic, apart from the takeaway service on Monday mornings, the Mission building is closed. 

It provides food, furniture, clothes, healthcare, counselling services and toys and first opened in 1892 by Charles Thompson.

After he died in 1903 his goals lived on through daughter Annie who became the charity's Lady Superintendent for 60 years.

In 1853 Annie was awarded the MBE for services to the people of Birkenhead, the same title that Peggy will receive from the Queen.

Speaking to the Globe recently Peggy said: "I absolutely love it here, helping those who need it.

"I've seen a lot of changes; some good, some bad, and it’s very much a home-from-home for me."

An online petition was set up to recognise Peggy’s service to the community and she was recognised with the Members of the Order of the British Empire.

Paying tribute to her work, fellow volunteer Amy Stanley said recently: "Peggy first came to mission as child to use their services.

"Age 16, she started volunteering at Thompson's Mission. Over the years Peggy has served meals to thousands of people and changed the lives of so many.

"She inspires us every single day and still has no plans to retire."

From all at the Globe, have a very happy 100th Peggy.