A WEST Cumbrian fundraiser has been awarded a diploma following almost half a century of charity work - which has seen him generate over a quarter of a million pounds for cancer patients and their families.

John Wilkinson, 87, from Broughton Moor near Cockermouth, has raised over £274,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support prior to his recent retirement from fundraising for the charity.

Throughout his 46 years of fundraising John has taken on a wide variety of challenges such as climbing mountains, walking from Keswick to Threlkeld and his much-loved singing events which he has held in a number of different towns across West Cumbria.

John started fundraising in the 70s following a diagnosis of bowel cancer. After being placed in remission, he decided it was time to give something back to those who had helped him.

Speaking about his fundraising, John said: "In the 70s I had cancer and when I was in remission I thought I would like to give something back... it all just started from there.

"When I was out of remission my first charity do was at Stanwix Holiday Park in Silloth. We raised £2,000 and it just escalated from there.

"I have really enjoyed it (doing the fundraising events and challenges) and if I had my health I would do it again, but that's why I have had to retire."

John's fundraising has allowed him to have many fantastic memories, but one sticks in his mind as being special. He said: "I was awarded the good citizens' award in the 70s and me and my wife were invited to the Queen's garden party."

The fundraiser has said he has a 'lot of people to thank' for their support over the last 46 years, paying special thanks to the people of the Flimby Pensioners' Committee, as well as Phillys Barnes from Seaton and the late Robert Reid from Maryport who have given him 'great support all over the years'.

Following his retirement the organisation have awarded John, who will turn 88 next month, with a diploma to recognise his work for the charity.

Lisa Martin, Macmillan Fundraising Team Manager, said: “John has been a fantastic volunteer for Macmillan, supporting us for many years. It’s thanks to people like John, that we can continue to fund vital cancer support services and help people with cancer live life as fully as they can, whether that’s help with physical concerns, how they feel, money worries or something different altogether.”

“Macmillan relies almost entirely on public donations to make a difference, so every penny raised by amazing supporters like John helps to ensure that everyone with a cancer diagnosis gets the care they need, when they need it.”