A PROLIFIC charity fundraiser and volunteer from the dale has been honoured with a British Citizen Award.
Pam Ashmore, from Barnard Castle, was one of only 26 people during a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster.
The award recognised her 35-year commitment to the Teesdale Branch of Cancer Research UK, as well as volunteering at Green Lane Primary School and being involved in helping the community during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The British Citizen Award, dubbed “the people’s honours” , is held every other year for individuals doing extraordinary work in their local community.
She was nominated for the award by Cancer Research UK’s manager for Teesdale, Jan Leafe. She said: “I am immensely proud of Pam and the Teesdale branch. Pam’s award really represents all of the group. Cancer Research UK could not operate without the support of people like the Teesdale group. Today, one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime. The Teesdale group helps to fund the research that will beat it.”
She added that the branch raises about £70,000 each year, and despite being hampered by Covid-19 restrictions were still able to raise £40,000 during lockdown. This included opening a pop-up shop in Barnard Castle.
Mrs Leafe said: “The perseverance of the group meant that our scientists could continue with their life-saving research.”
Along with her role as secretary to the Teesdale branch, Mrs Ashmore also volunteered to help distribute the TCR Hub’s care packages to families in need during lockdown and also delivered meals prepared by Babul’s restaurant for frontline workers. She also served as secretary to Barnard Castle Junior Football Club for many years and helps organise a Thursday social club for over-55s.
All of those who received awards enjoyed an afternoon tea at the Palace of Westminster followed by a “lap of honour” tour of London on an open-top bus. The day was rounded off with a post-event drinks reception where they were entertained by a singer and community choir.
Mrs Ashmore was presented with her award by TV personality Tim Vincent and British Citizen Award patron Dame Mary Perkins.
