A PASSIONATE fundraiser who has devoted thousands of hours to support Barnsley Hospital said she was ‘thrilled’ to have been honoured by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for her work with the NHS.

Beryl Fairclough, 77, of Silkstone, worked on ward 29/surgical admissions unit for 12 years and during that time raised money for the ward.

She has raised more than £10,000 for the Barnsley Hospital Charity and coordinates a team of volunteers known as the ‘Sensational Six’ who knit weekly to create items that are sold in local vendors and hospitals.

She also runs seasonal appeals, of which Easter is her largest, and has sold hundreds of knitted chickens, rabbits and ducks alongside chocolate eggs every year for charity.

Beryl became the latest recipient of the Prime Minister’s ‘Points of Light’ award which recognises those who have gone above and beyond to support their community.

She said: “I’m thrilled that people appreciate what I’ve done.

“This award is not only for me, but for the ‘Sensational Six’ who knit and craft to help fundraise for Barnsley Hospital and associated charities.”

Emma Parkes, director of marketing and communications, added: “We were delighted to hear Beryl would receive national recognition from the Prime Minister for all her hard work and effort.

“Beryl has devoted thousands of hours, and raised thousands of pounds for our charity and we send her our best wishes and biggest congratulations.”