A Thames Ditton fundraiser has been nationally recognised for her unflinching loyalty and dedication to Cancer Research UK.

The charity’s annual Flame of Hope awards acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering.

Vivienne Harris was named a Cancer Research UK honorary fellow at a special ceremony on May 24, hosted by Cancer Research UK’s chairman, Michael Pragnell.

She has helped raise more than £500,000 since joining the Thames Ditton local committee in 1967.

Becoming chairman 10 years later, Mrs Harris is now the local face of Cancer Research UK.

Mrs Harris said: “I am delighted that the charity has chosen to give me this award. Although it is nice to be appreciated and I felt very honoured to be there, the real pleasure is in seeing the results in the treatment of cancer improving all the time.

“That does make us feel that we are doing some good.”

Dr Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK chief executive, said: “Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer.

"However, we have only been able to do this 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.

“Our Flame of Hope awards give us the opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to these enormously generous volunteers and supporters for the fantastic work they do.”