WHEN he retired 20 years ago Alan Fraser Murray never envisaged becoming a master builder.
During his busy life he had worked in his family butchery business, secured a degree in hotel and catering, before running a finance company.
Even after retiring Alan took on several part-time jobs and still had time for a hobby.
But it was the gift of a miniature stone house from his wife which prompted him to think about building a new life as a volunteer.
The 85-year-old is the latest recruit in the furniture restoration department at St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington.
The busy department sees a team of experts restore a huge variety of items donated to the hospice or from house clearances to stock its charity shops in Darlington, County Durham and North Yorkshire.
Mr Fraser said: “I have just joined the team at St Teresa’s and absolutely love it. It is very rewarding working with a dedicated group of volunteers and knowing that your work will help raise vital funds for the hospice.”