Inspirational volunteers who give up their free time to support cancer patients, their families and carers have been honoured at an awards evening.

Cancer Support Bradford and Airedale held the annual event at its headquarters in Smith Lane, Bradford, to thank four volunteers who have each provided more than five years of service.

The awards went to volunteer drivers, 70-year-old Sadhu Singh Chhokar and Jack Mitchell, 65, and to Diane Priestley, 65, and Pamela Jackson, 72, who volunteer for the information team and distribute information on the wards of Bradford’s hospitals.

Linda Howard, director of the charity, said: “Our volunteers are an integrated part of our services and with their specific roles they make a real difference.

“We are a small, local, independent charity and last year we supported more than 3,500 local cancer sufferers and their carers. One of the reasons we have been able to have such an impact and support such a fantastic number of people is thanks to our team of volunteers.”

The volunteers work in many different and distinct ways – as drivers, therapist, counsellors, tutors, administrators, trustees and fundraisers.

Next year the volunteers will be helping the charity celebrates its Silver Jubilee and it is urging other organisations in the district to support it throughout the year.

Linda said: “There is an ever increasing demand for our support and advice services with one in three people now being diagnosed with cancer and we would be unable to meet this need without the support and dedication of our volunteers.

“Our volunteers are inspirational whatever their role in the organisation.”

To get involved, visit bradford cancersupport.org.uk where all volunteer vacancies are posted or call (01274) 776688.