A RINGWOOD fundraiser has received a national award from a cancer charity in recognition of his outstanding contribution to its work.

James Gordon, 95, was named a Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow in celebration of his loyalty and dedication to the cause over many years, at the charity's annual Flame of Hope Awards.

He was thrilled to receive the award and attend the ceremony in London just a week before his 95th birthday.

Daniella Carpenter, the charity's local senior fundraising executive, said: "Every step we make towards beating cancer sooner relies on every pound, every hour and every person.

"These awards are our way of honouring incredible people like James who give their time freely to raise money for research and promote greater awareness of the disease, and yet ask for nothing in return.

"It's thanks to the support of the fundraising public and our amazing army of volunteers that we can continue to make a real difference and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured."

Mr Gordon will soon be retiring as a fundraiser and thought that the special occasion was a fantastic way to end nearly 60 years of dedication, both as a member of a fundraising committee and through his own efforts.

The awards, held at the Hotel Russell in Russell Square, acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.

In the 1970s, less than a quarter of people with cancer survived. But over the last 40 years the survival rate has doubled, and today half will survive.

Dr Harpal Kumar, the charity's chief executive, said: "Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer and has set ambitious plans and aspirations for the future.

"However, progress is only made possible 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 gives us the opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to these enormously generous volunteers and supporters for the fantastic work they do."