Community remembers Val’s dedication, humour, and passion for keeping Plympton clean.
Plympton is mourning the loss of one of its most passionate community volunteers, Val Hill, who passed away unexpectedly at her home on August 5.
Val was a familiar face in the area, often seen with her litter-picking trolley and grabber, tirelessly working to keep local streets and green spaces tidy.
In February 2023, Val and her husband Gordon were recognised nationally as “Litter Pickers of the Month” in a scheme supported by Helping Hand Environmental, which rewards outstanding efforts by volunteer litter pickers. The pair were presented with a folding trolley and grabber to help them with their work.
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Val was well-known not only for her dedication but also her sense of fun. She would occasionally create decorative displays from cans and bottles she had collected, setting them out near her home to raise awareness and encourage others to get involved in keeping Plympton clean.
She was passionate about educating young people about the impact of litter on wildlife, often taking time to chat with them during her clean-ups.
Community Tributes
The news of Val’s passing has prompted an outpouring of love and tributes:
Carol Penhallurick: “Val was such an asset to our community, always out litter picking and her displays outside her home raised many a smile.”
Amanda Mair: “Valerie loved talking to people and especially interacting with young people about the hazards to the wildlife caused by litter. She was amazing and we will miss her so much.”
Sarah Tippett: “Val was a ray of sunshine, she will be a sad loss to our community,”
Shelley Giles:“I had the pleasure of seeing Val regularly and I’ll never forget her dedication to keeping our community clean. She will be deeply missed.”
Stella Gilmour: “I will always remember Val’s sense of humour and her saucy Jethro jokes. I will miss her.”
Funeral Arrangements
Val’s funeral will take place on Wednesday, September 10 at 11am at The Park Crematorium.
The family requests that attendees wear bright colours (no black). Family flowers only, but donations can be made to St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.
In a statement, the family said:
“Thank you everyone for all your amazing kindness and lovely words after our sad announcement about mum Val Hill passing away, I know it came as a shock to a lot of you but your lovely words about what Mum meant to you all is great comfort.”
Story Courtesy Of Plympton Podcast
