A 78-year-old, who has volunteered for a cancer centre for two decades, has been recognised for her hard work which she’ll continue into her retirement.

Bobbie Cass, from Ickenham, has given up her time to help at the Yiewsley Community Cancer Centre, since it’s launch 20 years ago.

Thanks to a nomination from Centre Manager, Bren Fisher, Ms Cass is a winner of a Halifax Giving Extra Award, which recognises those who make a positive difference in the community.

Ms Fisher said: “We nominated Bobbie because ever since we’ve been here at the centre, she has come in every week without fail.

“She’s helped so many cancer patients and their carers with all of the complimentary services she’s done. She’s retired and she’s carried on working but she always continued doing the complimentary services for us free of charge.

“She’s made such a big difference to so many people, she really has.”

Ms Cass, who gives complimentary reflexology at the centre, said: “I was surprised but also delighted to win a Halifax Giving Extra Award.

“It was such an honour to just be nominated, so I am hugely proud to have actually won.”

The 78-year-old will soon retire from her part-time community nursing job but will still carry on her voluntary work.

She said: “It’s so rewarding. I do it to help people because i’m in awe of what people go through, with harsh cancer treatments. It’s not only patients but the carers as well and it affects the whole family.

“I’d like to highlight the work of the Community Cancer Centre as I’ve been blessed with good health so I’d like to give back.”

'Truly deserving'

Halifax Community Ambassador, Dal Sihota with Bobbie Cass celebrates winning the local Halifax Giving Extra Awards for Yiewsley, Thames West.

The Centre, on Fairfield Road, Yiewsley, provides support for anyone affected by cancer.

It offers complimentary therapies for patients and carers, workshops, a weekly coffee morning, ‘MOT’ sessions specifically for men and evening support sessions for those going back to work.

Ms Fisher said: “We could not be able to afford to do any of these things without volunteers.

“Bobbie’s reflexology helps to relieve stress and compliments the treatment patients would be having such as chemotherapy - they work alongside each other so it does make a big difference for them.

“What’s so nice is, when they come in, it also gives them the opportunity to talk at the same time.

“She’s a great listener and a lovely, lovely person.”

Now in its third year, the Halifax Giving Extra Awards reward people who bring communities together and help them thrive. Charity fundraisers, sports coaches, community volunteers and many more have been recognised for the contribution they make.

The awards are an important part of Lloyds Banking Group’s ambition to help Britain prosper.

Dal Sihota, community ambassador for Halifax Thames West, said: “The work that Bobbie has done for the community is outstanding and truly deserves this recognition.

“She has truly gone the extra mile for people in our community – and we are delighted to recognise this.”