I’m Daniel, I’m 17 and live in Winterton.

My friend James Neal was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia in 2009. Tragically James lost his battle to leukaemia in May 2010. James touched many people’s hearts at Winterton School and in the wider community. His courage and determination has inspired many and has made many of us determined to raise funds in his memory.

Over the last two years, with the support of Rachel, Lewis and the community we have raised over £19,000 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

We started raising money for the James Neal Leukaemia Week in 2010. Before then a fundraising week like this was unknown in school. We held cake sales, staff vs pupils sporting matches, a gig and much more, we raised the largest single amount that had ever been raised in school – £2,459.92!

We have organised numerous fundraising events over the years with everything from concerts, to cream teas to the Bigger Copper Count Up – a large container that travels around the area for people to donate their loose change.

I am now the Co-ordinator of the Winterton and District Branch and we have lots of supporters. We have lots of jubilee events and contests to look forward to this year and I am confident we will soon have raised over £20,000.

I am very honoured to receive the Diana Award in recognition for my work. Although a lot of what I do takes hard work, planning and is time consuming, what a lot of people don’t realise is that it is a great privilege to be doing this work in memory of a truly missed friend, who has inspired many people.

I cannot thank everyone enough that has supported me, and to Julie Davey from Winterton Comprehensive School for nominating me for this award.

 Becky was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in January 2008. At the time, she was in Yearr 11 and she continued to attend school whilst receiving treatment. On the day her chemotherapy ended, she took part in the Race for Life. She has raised over £2,000 for the teenage cancer unit at St James’ in Leeds. 

Becky is a thoroughly inspiring young woman. Her determination and positive outlook has been an example to many other young people – many of whom have helped with fundraising. Her Diana Award has motivated her to continue working on behalf of others.