A KEY instigator of fundraising is stepping down after supporting a GP surgery for 13 years.

Beti Noel Jones, aged 89, was a volunteer for the Friends of Rhuddlan Surgery, also known as Healthy Rhuddlan Iach.

More than £4,200 has been collected by Friends of Rhuddlan Surgery and Mrs Jones has been the main instigator.

Through her efforts, the surgery has been able to purchase many medical apparatus.

Cllr Arwel Roberts, mayor of Rhuddlan, said: "Mrs Jones diligence has been an example to us all.

"My wife [Awen] and I are patients within the surgery, we are very grateful to her, and both us hope to support the two doctors and the medical staff in the future “

Beti has two grown up children and has lived in Rhuddlan for more than 20 years.

A spokesperson from Rhuddlan Town Council said: "Beti was part of the Volunteer for the Friends of Rhuddlan Surgery for many years. The numbers of the group dwindled over the years but the group felt that they achieved the objective of keeping a surgery service in Rhuddlan and had helped prevent the surgery from closing down. The surgery continues and still does to this day and is a valued service within the community."

Some of Beti's highlights over the years include raising money for essential medical apparatus and having 'close contact' with reception staff who she termed lovely and helpful and regarded them as friends.

The spokesperson added: "Beti entered the role after Dr Hazel Drury set up a group of volunteers who would act as patient representative and give feedback on the surgery/

"Beti said she has enjoyed the role very much.

"It has meant that she has had a close connection with Rhuddlan Surgery over the years and regards the staff in the surgery as friends."