Young volunteer’s dedication to charity earns national praise

A young volunteer received a national award from Cancer Research UK in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the cause.

Gemma Breakwell beat stiff competition from across the country in winning the Young Supporter of the Year award at the charity’s annual Flame of Hope Awards this year.

The Flame of Hope Awards recognise remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.

Gemma Breakwell at the Cancer Research UK Flame of Hope Awards

Gemma, who has just completed a degree in English Language and French at Lancaster University, lives in Nottingham.

The 21-year-old picked up the award at a special ceremony in London hosted by Cancer Research UK’s Chairman, David Newbigging OBE.

An audience at Le Meridien Hotel in Piccadilly heard how Gemma has worked tirelessly to raise funds for Cancer Research UK as well as recruiting student volunteers to help out at events, including the All Walk Together sponsored walk at Williamson Park in Lancaster last October.

Gemma, who attended the awards ceremony with her dad the day after completing her final exams, said: “I was thrilled and shocked to be presented with the award.

“My family were extremely proud of me and it was great to attend the ceremony with my dad.

“Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, so Cancer Research UK is a brilliant charity to support.”