Celebration as Aylesbury charity volunteers receive national award

Marguerite Russell and David Cooke were given the prize of Best Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year at the Institute of Fundraising East Anglia Regional Conference Awards.

Held on Tuesday 12 November in Ipswich, the annual awards recognise the exceptional fundraising efforts of charity organisations, supporters and volunteers across the East Anglia region. Marguerite and David were awarded for their voluntary work in raising funds for Lymphoma Action, the only charity in the UK dedicated to supporting people affected by lymphoma.

Their efforts as part of the Norfolk Lymphoma Action Fundraising Group have raised over £183,000 for the charity since the group was set up in 2003.

David and Marguerite both have experiences with lymphoma that drive them to work tirelessly to help others who have been affected by the condition. David received a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma himself in 2001, and Marguerite’s sister passed away from lymphoma in 2009.

“We are absolutely delighted that Marguerite and David have been recognised with this award”, said Carly Benton, volunteering development manager, who attended the event on behalf of Lymphoma Action.

“From organising themed music evenings, to teddy bear tombolas and treasure hunts, their hard work and dedication in raising the funds and awareness needed to support the work of our charity is incredible. Every 27 minutes someone is diagnosed with lymphoma. Through the support of wonderful volunteers like David and Marguerite, we can continue to make sure everyone affected by the condition receives the best possible information, support, treatment and care so that no one has to face lymphoma alone.”

To find out more information about volunteering opportunities with Lymphoma Action, and how you can get involved visit https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/volunteering