A GROUP of philanthropic volunteers from Yorkshire have been named ‘Fundraising Team of the Year’ by the UK’s leading end of life charity Marie Curie, at its fourth annual Fundraising Excellence Awards ceremony.

The awards, which took place virtually last week and were hosted by TV and radio broadcaster, Clive Anderson, recognises the hard work and dedication that many people give to Marie Curie across the country, helping to raise vital funds to provide care and support for people living with a terminal illness and their families.

The Yorkshire Development Board is comprised of 10 volunteers from across Yorkshire who work collectively to raise philanthropic funds and support fundraising activities throughout Yorkshire and for the Marie Curie Hospice on Maudsley Street in Bradford.

The group’s accolade comes after they used their time, expertise, and knowledge to help raise over £1million last year for Marie Curie, as well as securing exceptional donations for the end of life charity’s Emergency Appeal.

John Holden, of Ilkley, who is chairman of the Yorkshire Development Board and patron of the Marie Curie Hospice, Bradford, said: “On the Yorkshire Development Board we have a great team – we’re united in our aim to raise as much as we can for the wonderful work of Marie Curie in the region. We’re inspired by the care and commitment of the wider Marie Curie team, particularly those providing care and compassion to people at the end of their lives.

“We don’t expect any recognition for our efforts, which seem unimportant in comparison to those delivering direct Marie Curie care in homes and our hospices, but we are all very thankful, and humbled, to receive the National Fundraising Award. It should push us on to do even better in future years!”

Marie Curie Chief Executive, Matthew Reed, said: “Our supporters are at the heart of what we do at Marie Curie and their dedication allows us to continue to provide much-needed care and support services to thousands of dying people across the country, and their families.

“On behalf of everyone at Marie Curie and myself, we are so grateful to John and his team who have committed so much time and effort to supporting the charity. This award is a token of our gratitude for their outstanding achievement and we hope that it helps reinforce how much we value their contribution. Without them, we couldn’t continue to support people across the UK through all aspects of death, dying and bereavement.”

For help or information about any aspect of end of life care, terminal illness or grieving, whether you have practical, emotional or financial questions or concerns, or if you just want someone to talk to, call the Marie Curie Information and Support line on (0800 090 2309) or visit mariecurie.org.uk/help/support.