THE LIFE of a well-known Dumfriesshire personality with a passionate interest in politics was celebrated on Sunday.
Friends of the late Doreen Bell of Langholm, who passed away two years ago at 88, gathered at the town’s Eskdale Hotel to enjoy afternoon tea and share memories of her life.
Organised by Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell and constituency MSP Oliver Mundell, as well as a friend of Doreen’s, Sheena Dunlop from Dumfries, the event was well-enjoyed by all who attended.
“We always planned to have a special celebration for Doreen’s life but that had to be postponed because of Covid and now we are delivering on the idea, which I know will be appreciated by her many friends,” explained David Mundell.
“Doreen worked and campaigned as a volunteer with successive Conservative parliamentary candidates but, above all, I valued her as a friend and the turnout today reflects just how popular she was.”
“She later went on to help myself and my son Oliver at elections and at other times and was a very active member of the Conservative Women’s Group, both at local and national level.
Alongside David and Oliver Mundell were friends who attended from afar, including former Scottish Conservatives’ leader Jackson Carlaw and former MP and MEP John Corrie.
Oliver said: “It was an excellent afternoon with some people travelling a long distance. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and share their fond memories of her.
“Doreen hosted and attended many fund-raising events and was a regular at Scottish and UK party conferences.
“She was a stalwart and activist — part of the often unsung army of volunteers of all political viewpoints who help make our democracy work.”
Sheena Dunlop added: “There was a great atmosphere and everyone had a good catch-up with friends. I’m certain, if she was there, it’s the type of event Doreen would have approved of and greatly enjoyed.”
