A TEESSIDE woman has been recognised for her longstanding voluntary work with a national charity close to her heart – Epilepsy Action.

Ruth Cavanagh received an Epilepsy Action Volunteer Award for providing outstanding support to people with the condition who live in Middlesbrough.

She runs two coffee and chat groups for people with epilepsy, where people have the chance to meet others with the same condition and share experiences.

Accepting her award, she said: “I am thrilled and touched to receive this award. I was inspired to volunteer by my own experiences. When I was diagnosed with epilepsy, I didn’t know anyone else who had it. It was a really lonely place to be. I knew I couldn’t be the only one in this position, so I contacted Epilepsy Action and set up the coffee and chat group in Middlesbrough. I am really proud to have been able to help others live with their epilepsy.”

Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “This award is a fitting and deserved tribute to her commitment and successes.”

For more information visit epilepsy.org.uk