Dame Mary Perkins

Dame Mary has been nominated for her continuous support to the local community, including her roles with the Island Games and Specsavers Youth Games, as well as her generosity supporting local and worldwide charities.
‘She is a wonderful lady whose quiet impact shapes our community every day,’ said her nominator, who wishes to remain anonymous. 
‘Her reach and compassion are truly remarkable, she’s approachable and very real with people, if she believes in what you are doing, she will support it.’ 
Dame Mary is currently actively involved with over 30 charities and organisations. Some of these include Women’s refuge, St John, and Age Concern. 
‘I like to get involved, not just be a patron, I like to work closely with other people,’ said Dame Mary. 
She works closely with the States social services, where she provides children with free glasses and eye treatment. ‘We all pull together as a community, so nobody suffers on the island,’ she said. 
She also started the Specsavers Youth Games. They have been running for 20 years and this year had more than 800 children involved from years five and six. 
‘I love every minute of it,’ she said. ‘It gives the children a chance to try a new sport and make new friends.’