Leyland fund-raiser honoured with Cancer Research UK Flame of Hope award

The 68-year-old was named a Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Honorary Fellow in celebration of her dedication to the charity since joining the Leyland Group of Friends in 1971 aged just 21. Carol, who lost both her parents and her grandfather to cancer, is chairman of the fund-raising group and remains as passionate as ever about the cause. Thanks to her hard work, the committee has raised £600,000 for CRUK.

Carol picked up the accolade at a special ceremony in London hosted by CRUK’s chairman, Sir Leszek Borysiewicz. She said: “Cancer Research UK is a cause very close to my heart and has been a huge part of my life. Whenever I have the chance to attend a lab tour, I find the research fascinating.“The Flame of Hope awards were brilliant and so inspiring.”

Sir Leszek Borysiewicz, Cancer Research UK’s chairman, said: “CRUK’s drive to save lives through research makes a real difference to countless people and families every day. It’s been an honour to host the Flame of Hope awards and hear about the achievements of our many dedicated volunteers. It’s important to say thank you to these truly remarkable volunteers and supporters for the fantastic work they do. CRUK has made tremendous progress in the fight against cancer but that’s only possible thanks to the commitment of our supporters and volunteers, without whom it would not be possible to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses.”

Cancer Research UK spokesman for Lancashire, Jane Bullock, said: “Every step we make towards beating cancer sooner relies on every pound, every hour and every person.“These awards are our way of honouring incredible people like Carol who give their time freely to raise money for research and promote greater awareness of the disease, and yet ask for nothing in return.It’s thanks to the support of the fundraising public and our amazing army of volunteers that we can continue to make a real difference and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.”

The group, which meets monthly, is keen to find new members to help out with their fundraising efforts. For further information contact Cathy Pass on 07977 519597.