Cancer Research UK
822. Gill Murray
Gill Murray, from the Clyde Valley, has raised £101,000 for ‘Cancer Research UK’ through her fundraising efforts that span over 20 years.
Gill organises an annual fundraising day which has grown from a coffee morning with a few friends, to a locally renowned event attracting hundreds and raising over £7,000 each year. Gill has inspired a team of dozens of dedicated volunteers who assist her with her efforts throughout the year and in the organisation of the fundraising day itself. Gill’s other charitable activities draw on her talents as a home baker and she has raised £10,000 through sales of her first recipe book and her accompanying cake stalls. She has just launched her second baking book in anticipation of this year’s event, which takes place the day after she receives her award.
In a personal letter to Gill, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“The success of your annual fundraising event for ‘Cancer Research UK’ is a testament to the number of volunteers and visitors you have inspired to join your vital cause. The sheer number of fundraising events you have organised over the past two decades, including the sales of your recipe books, is truly remarkable and you should be very proud of the impact your fundraising is having on pioneering cancer research.”
Gill said:
“I am honoured to receive this incredibly prestigious award and thrilled that the Prime Minister’s office has recognised the tremendous contribution of volunteers throughout the country to the benefit of charities and local communities. I really enjoy all the time I spend volunteering for ‘Cancer Research UK’ and the community of Carluke has always been really supportive of my fundraising. I know that the funds we raise will be spent wisely to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. That is my motivation, and this award is for all my family, friends and extended community who support me all year.”