A Harrogate man has received the Prime Minister's Points of Light Award following his extraordinary fundraising efforts.
James Badger was presented with the award by Ripon and Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith after he raised £300,000 for Blood Cancer UK.
James began his campaign following the death of his wife Philipa - 36 hours after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in 2022.
She was just 42-years-old.
In 2023, to mark the first anniversary of Philippa's passing, James cycled from Lands End to John O'Groats in just eight days.
In May, James took on his 'Ride to the Stars' challenge, cycling the equivalent of Mount Everest's height by ascending the Lackon Bank in Birstwith and beyond a total of 90 times.
His route passed the school where Philippa had been deeply involved and the church where she is buried.
He said:
“I’m delighted to be receiving the Points of Light award on behalf of the team effort to raise awareness into blood cancer and funds for research into the disease with the charity Blood Cancer UK.
“I hope that in my small way I can make a difference for thousands of sufferers in the future.”
James is fundraising to support a three-year research project on acute myeloid leukaemia at Cardiff University.
Helen Rowntree, Chief Executive of Blood Cancer UK, said:
“James’ fundraising has been nothing short of inspirational, not only for the blood cancer community but for anyone who’s come across his story.
“After the sudden death of his wife Phillipa, from acute myeloid leukaemia in 2022, James has dedicated himself to raising the profile and funding research into this aggressive form of blood cancer.
“James’s fundraising is supporting the development of more treatment options for acute myeloid leukaemia, improving survival rates. James is giving hope to so many affected by blood cancer, the UK’s fifth most common cancer.
"On behalf of everyone in the ‘Blood Cancer UK’ community, we send James our congratulations for the award and this hugely well deserved recognition from the Prime Minister.”
The Prime Minister's Points of Light award recognises outstanding UK volunteers - those making a change in their community.
Speaking at the presentation, Julian said:
"James is an inspiration. His determination and commitment to raising awareness for Blood Cancer UK is an example of the very best of community spirit.
"He is making a tangible difference, and today, we celebrate his achievements and dedication with this much-deserved Points of Light Award.”
More information about James’ fundraising efforts can be found here.
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