Fundraiser Sharon ‘thrilled’ to see plane named after her

WESTSIDE fundraiser Sharon Deyell was honoured by Flybe on Friday as the plane named after her touched down at Sumburgh Airport.

Sharon, who has raised thousands for charity through events like her famed swapshop, was selected in October as the airline’s first community hero.

She was given an award at Sumburgh to mark the formal naming of the jet.

“When Flybe called me to tell me I had won I was really shocked, to be honest it still hasn’t sunk in,” Sharon said.

“It’s very strange to see my own name up on the side of an aircraft but I’m really thrilled.”

Sharon was nominated by Elizabeth Nicolson from Aith for the title.

Flybe interim chief commercial officer Ronnie Matheson said Sharon was a “worthy winner” of her accolade.

“Flybe proudly supports the local communities we serve and so we are delighted to recognise Sharon for being an outstanding and inspirational local community hero who continually goes above and beyond by giving up so much of her time to others,” he said.

“I would like to thank all those who sent in such outstanding nominations – it is clear that Shetland has more than its share of selfless individuals who go the extra mile to support their communities in so many different ways.”

In addition to having the plane named after her, Sharon was given complimentary flights and overnight accommodation for two.