AN EVESHAM fund-raiser has received a national award from Cancer Research UK in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the cause.
The charity’s annual Flame of Hope Awards acknowledge remarkable efforts in fund-raising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.
Paul Baylis, from Evesham, scooped the Fund-raising Volunteer of the Year accolade, beating off stiff competition from across the UK.
He picked up the award on Friday, June 10 at a ceremony in London hosted by Cancer Research UK’s Chairman, Michael Pragnell.
An audience at the Merchant Taylors Hall, heard how Paul had shown exceptional dedication to Cancer Research UK by setting ambitious fundraising challenges, including taking Evesham Relay’s fundraising total to a massive £600,000 over the past nine years.
Paul, who also works full-time for machinery importers FGM Claymore, never expects others to do what he won’t do himself.
His own impressive list of personal fund-raising challenges includes the Mud Run at Eastnor Castle, climbing the three peaks and running the London Marathon.
He also organises Evesham’s Twilight Walk, which has raised £32,000 over the past three years for Evesham Relay.
Never daunted by a target, Paul has set his sights even higher for the future, pledging to keep on fund-raising till Relay tips the £1million mark.
After receiving his award, Paul said: “I don’t do these things to be recognised, I find it deeply embarrassing. At the same time I have to say it was very nice to receive this award and I felt extremely proud.
“The most amazing thing about the day was the other people I met, who all made me feel very humble,” he said.
Cancer Research UK’s local fund-raising manager for Evesham, Maria Parker, who nominated Paul for the award, said: “Paul is the most amazing volunteer I have ever met. His passion and his unfailing energy are very special indeed.
“Paul doesn’t just chair the Relay For Life, he is out in the community actively fundraising with his display boards and going into schools to spread the Cancer Research UK
“He spends every spare moment volunteering including his holidays and he has developed new relationships with local residents and businesses in his community.”
In addition to his Flame of Hope award, Paul was also recognised by the American Cancer Society who awarded him a commendation in the International Global Spirit of Relay Award.
Visit cruk.org.for more information about Cancer Research UK.
