A Caerphilly-based fundraising group has been named South East Wales Fundraisers of the Year after raising £78,000.

The Caerphilly Fundraising Group, formed in 2011, was set up to raise money for Marie Curie – a charity that aims to provide care and support for people with terminal illnesses and their families.

The group, which has ten members, raised the remarkable sum through hosting concerts, annual quizzes and fashion shows, as well as tea parties and a variety of other activities.

The group has also raised funds through bucket collections and collection tins.

Members of the group received the award at the official launch of the charity’s annual Great Daffodil Appeal, which was held at the Senedd on Wednesday, February 5.

Margaret Churchill, Secretary of the Caerphilly Fundraising Group, said: “We really didn’t expect to win the award, we’re so surprised but it’s so nice that all of our hard work has been appreciated. People are so kind, some don’t have two pennies to rub together but they’ll always put some change in our buckets.

“We started back in 2011 with about five people in a café in Caerphilly, and all of the work has been worth it. We’ve got lots more coming up, we’ve already planned the year ahead.”

Charli Thomas, Marie Curie Community Fundraiser for south Wales, said: “The Caerphilly Fundraising group is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when a group of committed people come together, and so we’re incredibly grateful for their continued support.

“It’s fantastic to see the group recognised for the amazing effort they’ve put in to raising vital funds for us since 2011 and we hope this inspires others to give fundraising a go.”

To help the group with the collection or for more information, visit obv.sr/mcgda or contact Ms Thomas on charli.thomas@mariecurie.org.uk or 02920 426068.