Memorial tree plan following death of much loved Doncaster park volunteer

Jean Ketley, 86, spent more than 15 years working to improve and keep Wheatley’s Sandall Park tidy and was a key part of the Friends of Sandall Park, the volunteer group which looks after the outdoor space.

Now, following her death, plans have been drawn up to plant a tree in the park in her memory.

Sandra Crabtree, chairman of the group, said: “She has certainly left a huge hole in the FoSP group.

"A stalwart, never shying away from hard work, always making the group smile and leaving special memories with each and every one of us.

“Whatever was happening in the park, be it a litter pick; planting bulbs; a major event or simply a health walk – Jean was always there, even when she wasn’t well. She is probably best known for her job taking registrations for the annual Hook a Duck championships and also at the Santa Dash.

“She always made us laugh at FoSP meetings with her anecdotes. Her repertoire at the FoSP Christmas party – singing along to her husband Ron’s piano playing of the Christmas Carols is unrivalled, she was always game for a laugh.”

Jean, who lived in Clay Lane, was taken ill last year and passed away at home on New Year’s Day.

Her husband Ron, a retired music teacher, has also devoted his retirement to working with the group.

Added Sandra: “She will truly be missed by all our group and to ensure her memory lives on in the park, we are organising a crowdfunding appeal to buy a native memorial tree.

"Ron and Jean, no matter what we do in the park, they were the first to volunteer their services.

"They were there in all weathers, even when they were under the weather. Jean was one in a million and she'll be truly missed. Our thoughts are with Ron and his family.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the memorial tree appeal can do so HERE