Meet Mavis Holland: The Woman Who Helped Build Britain’s Motorways and Paint Its Beauty
At 93 years young, Mavis Holland, a resident at HC-One’s Hepworth House Care Home in Stanley, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, continues to captivate everyone around her with her incredible life story, creative talent, and sparkling sense of humour.
Mavis is not only a gifted artist but also played a key role in one of Britain’s greatest post-war engineering feats: the construction of the UK’s motorway network.
Her journey began in childhood, sketching alongside her father.
Mavis Holland, resident at HC-One’s Hepworth House Care Home, commented:
“I used to copy my dad’s drawings. That’s when he realised, I was quite good at it!”
That early spark of creativity would later lead her into an unexpected path, the heart of civil engineering during the 1950s and 60s.
At just 16, Mavis joined the workforce as a
tracer, drafting technical drawings and layouts for major infrastructure projects.
“I worked on the M1 and the E Motorway,” Mavis says with pride.
“Every section needed different plans, and that’s what I did for over 10 years.” Her technical artistry helped shape the backbone of Britain’s growing transport network, and along the way, she made fond memories
. “A workman used to take off his cap and bow every morning, we had such a laugh!” she chuckles.
Following her time in engineering, Mavis worked for the Yorkshire Electricity Board (YEB). With characteristic wit, she reflects:
“The boss wasn’t very nice, he used to time our toilet breaks!”
Despite the changes in her career, one constant has remained: her love of painting. Mavis has produced countless beautiful works of art, some of which now adorn the walls of HC-One’s Hepworth House Care Home. One of her proudest creations is a painting of Chantry Bridge Chapel, the first piece that ignited her lifelong passion.
“That’s where my love for painting truly began,” she says.
Even as her eyesight has become more challenging, Mavis continues to paint and make cards, delighting fellow residents and colleagues with her creativity
. “I must say, they are amazing,” she beams with a cheeky smile.
Mavis remains a beloved and inspirational figure at Hepworth House. Her story is a powerful reminder that passion, perseverance, and a great sense of humour can leave a lasting legacy, whether on canvas or concrete.
Ellie Linskill, HC-One Hepworth House Care Home’s Activities Coordinator, commented:
“Mavis is truly one of a kind, her life story is nothing short of inspirational. From helping to build the country’s motorway network to creating beautiful works of art, she brings so much wisdom, creativity and joy to our home. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our Hepworth House family, and it’s a privilege to support her as she continues doing what she loves.”