A Cockermouth woman, who has worked tirelessly and raised more than £7,000 since her son died four years ago, has been presented with an award for her work.

Ginette Cuthbertson, of Highfield, is keen to help others and raise awareness of diabetes following the death of 29-year-old Terry Paterson as a result of complications from the condition.

Together with a big team of family and friends, known as Tez’s Team, she has raised funds for Diabetes UK.

She was presented with an Inspire Award for fundraising this week by the charity.

Maria Whittaker, regional fundraiser for Diabetes UK, said: “Ginette is an inspiration.

“I am extremely honoured to present her with this award in recognition of her many hours of hard work and support. “

Ginette, 62, who works at Sainsbury’s, said: “I just want to help people who have diabetes and also raise awareness.

“It’s fantastic to have the support of so many family and friends. Between us we have arranged lots of events, from sponsored runs and walks to stalls, sponsored silences, football matches, raffles, car boot sales and collections at Sainsbury’s, where I work.

“The store has been really supportive.”

Terry had two daughters, Samantha, 13, and Eva, nine.

“Samantha has diabetes, so we are doing this for her too,” said Ginette, who has three other grown-up children, Robert, Sarah and Melissa, and 12 grandchildren.

“They have all helped with raising funds. The grandchildren like helping on the stalls,” she added.

“It’s been great being able to raise so much money. I’ve enjoyed it.

“I have met some fantastic people and if we can help improve people’s lives that’s great.”

Terry helped to establish Highfield Football Club, where fundraising matches have been held in his memory over the years. He was diagnosed with diabetes aged three.

Sainsbury’s has provided drinks and snacks for family football tournaments over the years.

The store also hosts a stall and collections during Diabetes Week. Staff also buy items knitted by Ginette.

Ella Holdsworth, of Sainsbury’s, said: “We just feel, when someone is prepared to give so much of their free time to something which means so much to them, we want to be there to support them.”

Tez’s Team will have a stall at Party in the Park, in Workington, on May 27.