A STALWART charity fundraiser who has helped raise more than £300,000 for Cancer Research UK over the past 30 years has been recognised in a national award.

Jennie Scholes, 81, from Shipton, was recognised for her work at the charity's 13th annual Flame of Hope awards which acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.

Mrs Scholes was named Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow in celebration of unflinching loyalty and dedication.

She picked up the accolade at a special ceremony in London hosted by Cancer Research UK's chairman, Michael Pragnell.

An audience at the Hotel Russell in Russell Square heard how Mrs Scholes had successfully driven the Shipston committee as chairman for 28 years helping raise the huge amount.

A former dental nurse who has four children, five step-children and 26 grandchildren, she sometimes enlists the help of family members but said she relies on the generosity of local people and fellow committee members to keep the committee going.

"Some of my children and grandchildren do get involved but I'd also like to thank the committee members for all their hard work. My part is a very small drop in the ocean but it's been very rewarding. I'm very honoured to get this award," said Mrs Scholes.

Annie Mitchell, Area Volunteer Manager for Cancer Research UK, said: "No ask is too much for Jennie who regularly opens up her home and garden for at least two events a year.

"Selflessly generous and unfailingly cheerful Jennie has kept the committee thriving and developed with new members and relentlessly calls volunteers to support at collections. She has an incredible enthusiasm for the charity and work that we do.

"These awards are our way of honouring incredible people 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."

Dr Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK Chief Executive, added: "Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer and has set ambitious plans and aspirations for the future.

"However, progress is only made possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers and supporters, without whom we would not be able to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses."

In the 1970s, less than a quarter of people with cancer survived. But over the last 40 years, survival has doubled. Today half will survive. Cancer Research UK's ambition is to ensure that three-quarters of all people diagnosed survive their cancer within the next 20 years.