A WOMAN who has devoted years to raising awareness of cancer has been nominated for a national award.

Mary Lee, 56, of Stokesley, is one of 25 women from across the country to go through to the final stages of the Avon In Praise of Women Awards.

Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 1991 and, following major surgery and treatment including a mastectomy and radiotherapy, set about putting all her energies into raising awareness of all forms of cancer.

Among her greatest successes was the Celebration of Life catwalk show in April this year. The event attracted an audience of more than 2,000 people, raised £36,000 and brought many local cancer groups together for the first time.

The money raised allowed Mary to start work on her cancer support services directory, which will provide help and advice to patients in the area.

If chosen as one of the winners, she will be presented with a glass trophy at a ceremony in London in September.

Mary said: "I am keeping my fingers crossed for the final judging day, but just knowing that people have thought about me in this way has made my year already."