Bath resident George Harding has been awarded the prestigious British Citizen Award in recognition of his extraordinary service raising more than £200,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Kaeti Morrison, George Harding and Cllr Rob Appleyard | Photo courtesy of Macmillan Cancer Support
George has been fundraising for the charity for over 23 years.
He was honoured by the Mayor of Bath with the coveted British Citizen Award Medal of Honour for services to Volunteering & Charitable Giving, in the Mayor’s Parlour at the Guildhall on 9th June.
Now in its eighth year, The British Citizen Award in partnership with One Stop recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities throughout the country.
Speaking of the award, Jonny McQuarrie, from BCA partner One Stop, said: “This year’s medallists have reminded us of how many amazing people are supporting our communities, especially during such a challenging time.
“At One Stop we serve many communities across the country, and we know how important voluntary work is to support those in need.
“We’re proud to be partnering with the BCA again and to play a small part in helping each medallist to be recognised. Our congratulations go to all honourees.”
The Mayor, Councillor Rob Appleyard, added: “It was a privilege to meet George and acknowledge his fundraising efforts with the British Citizen Award Medal of Honour. George’s commitment to both volunteering and the community is nothing short of exceptional.
“George ran his first London Marathon in 1998 and could be regularly seen running around the streets of Bath and taking part in the annual Bath Half Marathon, raising funds for Macmillan.
“His fundraising efforts have not only helped those affected by cancer but local patients in the Royal United Hospital Bath through his support of RUH X, formerly known as the Forever Friends Appeal.
“For the last 23 years, George has dedicated his time to fundraising and raising the profile of Macmillan. It is fantastic that he has now raised more than £200,000.
“His passion and dedication to Macmillan and helping those living with cancer is only just showing signs of slowing down, even now at the age of 86.”
George has undertaken fifty-two UK and overseas Macmillan challenge events over the last 23 years.
Having lost his wife and other family members to cancer, George is committed and dedicated to the work Macmillan does, and the need for the service motivates him with all of the challenges he undertakes.
Kaeti Morrison, Relationship Fundraising Manager in the South West, said: “The funds George has raised could pay for a Macmillan nurse for over three years or support the cancer information support team that runs the Macmillan support line service for six weeks.
“These funds could also provide over 560 people affected by cancer with a Macmillan Grant, which is a one-off payment of £350 each to help with the extra costs that living with cancer brings.”
