Pride of Guernsey: 'She gives her help freely and enjoys doing so'

The retired nurse has received 21 separate nominations from neighbours, friends and family so far and it cannot be ruled out that more will come in.

The nominations paint a picture of a woman who spends her entire day thinking and acting on what she can do to enhance other people's lives, with many of the nominations warning her that she needs to occasionally think of herself too.

Her famous lemon cakes have become a long-time fixture of fundraisers for the various charities she is involved with and she has regularly given support to families in times or crisis or grieving.

Poignantly, all of the nominations point out that she never expects anything in return – that she gives her help freely and enjoys doing so.

Liz Head, one of the nominators, said without Mrs Tracy her life would be poorer.

'There is no limit to the time Vera is prepared to dedicate to people who need care in their lives and who happen to be friends of her and her husband,' she said. 'She will do shopping, sitting, cooking and is always there to lend a listening ear and give her ever-ready attention and companionship.

'Without her regular care and interest, as I am house-bound, my life would have far less stimulus and activity.'

Deborah Baudains said: 'Vera is unstinting in her ability and willingness to help her friends, acquaintances and, of course, family in absolutely any area of their lives.

'She is undoubtedly the most selfless person I have ever come across.'

Despite the overwhelming praise she has received for her efforts, Mrs Tracy herself is quick to laugh off the work she does to enrich people's lives.

'I really haven't got much to say about myself, I just give time to people and

that is what everyone does in life,' she said.