A VOLUNTEER at the Carlisle branch of the British Heart Foundation (BHF) has been recognised for her hard work and dedication.

Marianne Thompson has been rewarded for her work in her local BHF shop and won a Volunteer of the Year Award from the charity.

Marianne has been a shop floor volunteer with the BHF since 2020 and won the award for her 'drive and compassion' within her role.

BHF Area Manager, Mark Howie, nominated Marianne and said: “Every store needs a Marianne! She is a breath of fresh air and has always got a smile on her face. Marianne even cooks for the team to keep them going throughout the day.

"Marianne is a pleasure to be part of the team and we are so proud to have her as part of the Carlisle team and to win this award.”

Marianne Thompson said: “I’ve been a volunteer with the British Heart Foundation for over two years and I love it. It’s all about teamwork!”

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This Volunteers Week, June 1-7, the BHF is recognising its 17,000 retail volunteers who generously give the gift of time in their local high street and home shops, by awarding specially selected volunteers across the country with a Volunteer of the Year Award.

All the money raised in BHF shops helps fund research into heart and circulatory disease.

Sarah Boardman, retail volunteering operations manager at the British Heart Foundation said; “Our shop volunteers play such a vital role to help the BHF continue raising funds for life saving research. Without their contribution and continued support the BHF wouldn’t be able to fund scientific breakthroughs that turn science fiction into reality. 

“This year’s Volunteer of the Year Awards recognise individuals, like Marianne who go above and beyond in their role. Thank you!

“Our recent survey results prove how volunteering positively impacts people’s lives and wellbeing. It’s not only an opportunity to support the British Heart Foundation but a chance to learn new skills, meet new people and support your local community.

“I encourage anyone thinking about volunteering to visit their local BHF shop, have a chat with our friendly staff and volunteers or visit our website to find out more.”

The BHF is asking for local support in its shops to help them fund vital research that turns ideas that once seemed like 'science fiction' into treatments that save lives every day.

Volunteer roles can include customer service, telephone and logistical administration, operating tills and merchandising on the shop floor.