Newton Abbot woman who's raised a third of a million pounds is Pride of Devon lifetime achiever

Bicton College Pride of Devon awards, hosted by Radio Exe, held at Devon County Showground on Friday

Many charities wouldn’t survive or thrive were it not for an army of volunteers who give up time to promote causes of raise funds. Kelly Hayman-Bruce is one such volunteer – and she’s been making a difference for a lifetime; especially for one cause that’s impacted her family, friends and neighbours. 

It started when cancer struck five people living on the same street as Kelly. Later, her mother sadly died of the disease, aged just 55. So for more than 30 years, Kelly has been a stalwart of charitable fundraising. For nearly 20 of those years, she’s led a group of Macmillan Cancer Support volunteers in Devon. If there’s a way of raising money, Kelly knows it. A charity walk? A calendar? A sponsored slim, auction or ball? Get the sponsorship form out! 

All contributions add up. For Macmillan alone, Kelly has handed over a third of a million pounds. It’s made a difference to people affected by one of the most challenging health issues that strikes without warning, at any time. But volunteering isn’t just about giving up time. There is a social side too; and Kelly’s work is much appreciated by those in her team around Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot and Exeter. And this summer, she’s heading to the palace, as a guest of the royal family  in thanks for her lifetime contribution.