A MACHYNLLETH councillor has been recognised for his part in helping raise over £100,000 for local cancer research.

Michael Williams, age 76, who acts as Machynlleth’s county councillor has been a loyal member of the Machynlleth-based fundraising branch of the North West Cancer Research since 1978.

Michael first decided to get involved with fundraising for cancer research after his witnessed his great-grandmother Laura lose her battle with a very aggressive form of breast cancer at the age of 82.

Over the last 40 years, he has played a pivotal role in raising the profile of the charity acting as its local press officer, as well as supporting the fundraising group’s numerous fundraising drives, coffee mornings and street collections.

The Machynlleth fundraising group, which celebrated its 60th year of fundraising this month at the Plas Dolguog Hotel raised £3,500 for NWCR last year.

Charity CEO Alastair Richards formally recognised the continued efforts of the group at a special event earlier this month at the Plas Dolguog Hotel, where he presented Michael with a long-standing service award.

Michael said: “Losing my great grandmother to cancer all those years ago, opened my eyes for the first time to the devastating effect that cancer can have on people’s lives.

"When I first heard about NWCR and the fundraising group through my friend and previous chairman John Daniel Jones, I knew it was something I wanted to get involved with and help in any way I could.

"I really enjoy my role as press officer, it’s great to help raise awareness of the importance of cancer research and highlight the work the charity does, what is needed and how people can help make a difference.”

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