Inspirational and talented women recognised in awards

This year’s event, which raised more than £46,000, marked the charity’s 60th anniversary and saw Compton triathlete Fay Dellimore, Tilehurst businesswoman Jackie Chappell and Newbury’s Community Champion Claire Whittaker all take away awards.
Around 250 guests were welcomed by a drinks reception at the awards, which were held to highlight the success of women from across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire – the three counties supported locally by Sue Ryder.
Claire Whittaker had an oophorectomy and mastectomy to remove both of her ovaries and breasts after she was diagnosed with BRACA2 gene mutation in 2010, which meant she was at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer in the future.
She used her experience to advise, support and inspire others in a similar situation by creating her blog – Claire and the genie – which has clocked up 25,000 followers in three years.
After receiving her Community Champion of the Year Award in recognition of her voluntary work in helping the community, she said: “I still cannot believe that I won. What an honour. It felt so humbling to be surrounded by such inspirational women.
“I have never won an award before and I keep finding myself looking at it and I can honestly say (if it doesn't sound big headed) that I feel really proud. Thank you so much.“
After receiving her award for Business Woman of the Year, Jackie Chappell said: "It was a truly wonderful evening with inspirational nominees and emotional stories of other people's experiences.
“I am really proud to have won an award from such a high standard of nominees, and the awards night will be a special occasion I will remember for a long time."
The first to receive her award on the night was triathlete Fay Dellimore, who picked up the accolade of Sports Woman of the Year - see this week’s sports pages for more.
Regional fundraiser and event organiser, Emma Harpaul said “There was a great vibe throughout and everyone was very generous. I’m always amazed by the phenomenal work that so many women are doing in their everyday lives.”