Head of PE Wins BBC Make a Difference Award

From the Bromsgrove Standard

Bromsgrove's cancer fundraising hero scoops Make a Difference Award

BROMSGROVE’S triumphant marathon runner Gill Punt continues to earn the plaudits for her fundraising efforts with her latest recognition coming in the form of a BBC Make a Difference Award.

Gill Punt, head of PE at South Bromsgrove High School, began raising funds for Cancer Research UK by running races after her dad Mike died of bile duct cancer in 1999, aged just 56.

To date she has ran 28 marathons, 70 half-marathons and has claimed two Guinness World Records as well as earned herself a British Empire Medal. She is set to run her 29th marathon in Amsterdam next month.

Her 29th marathon, the TCS Amsterdam Marathon on October 19, marks Gill’s final push towards her fundraising goal of £2 million for Cancer Research UK. She stands just £18,000 away from her momentous target.

At BBC Hereford and Worcester’s ceremony on Friday (September 25), Gill was bestowed the Fundraiser award after being nominated by her daughter.

She told the Standard: ““I feel incredibly honoured to have been recognised with a BBC Make a Difference Award.

“The evening was so moving and inspiring, and to be even a small part of it was very special.

“This award isn’t really about me – it’s about shining a light on the importance of fundraising, research, and community spirit in the fight against cancer.

“Every pound raised brings us one step closer to a world where fewer families have to go through the heartbreak this disease causes.”

Since our publication of Gill’s last push to reach £2 million of cash raised for Cancer Research UK, the fundraiser has shared her delight at receiving a substantial £1,000 donation from a single generous donor.