Shirley Hall

Born a Maid of Kent, I spent my university years much further up the East coast at St Andrews, where I gained a B.D. followed by a Ph. D in Ecclesiastical History. Then followed two teaching posts, firstly at a secondary school in Norfolk, then a Sixth Form College in West Sussex. In 1991 I came to Ely for a schools’ advisory role with the Diocesan Education Team, and here I still am, although now retired. 

I have been a member of the Cathedral congregation since I first came here, and, with my Diocesan role, I planned annual large-scale events for primary school children in the Cathedral, as well as writing materials for Church Schools and also for the then Cathedral Education groups. On retirement I trained as a Cathedral guide, and also joined both the Welcome Team and the Stewards – in fact I am now in the Cathedral most days on some pretext or other!

Although I have been a Friend for many years, there was originally little opportunity to get involved in activities because of work commitments, although I was always aware of the work of the Friends in promoting all that goes on in this wonderful place. To now be a member of the FOEC Council and work with others on supporting the ongoing life of the Cathedral and the wide network of Friends is a privilege.