THE lady who inspired the creation of a Dorset charity has celebrated her 70th birthday.

Marilyn Edwards is the daughter of Diverse Abilities founder Phyllis, and has been supported by the charity for the last 40 years through a range of services.

It took three-and-half years for Marilyn to be diagnosed with cerebral palsy and Phyllis and her husband John were then told "put her away, she will only be a cabbage".

Undeterred, the couple discovered a need for support for local families with disabled children and wrote a letter to the Daily Echo in 1955. The letter received a number of responses and, within two months, a group was formed for parents intent on providing better opportunities for youngsters with physical and learning disabilities.

The charity, which has been renamed several times over the years, has given Marylin the chance to life life to her full potential and achieve things that may not have been deemed possible when she was born. She continues to be supported to live in her own home 24/7.

Phyllis said: "Marilyn has been supported by Diverse Abilities for 40 years and the care provided has been second to none. Her team have always been amazing! Marilyn only started being supported by the charity at age 30, when adult services was introduced, but as soon as she started being cared for by Diverse Abilities, she loved it and made many friends.

“I am ever so thankful to Diverse Abilities for continuing the work I started, which was all because of Marilyn. The charity has grown over the past 63 years and long may it continue to support those in vital need.”

Today, Diverse Abilities supports more than 2,000 local people a year through its wide range of services. Much of the provision provided to local people with disabilities is down to the support from the local community raising vital funds. For further information regarding Diverse Abilities, the charity’s story or to find out how you can get involved, visit diverseabilities.org.uk or call 01202 718266.