Isa Williamson was named a Cancer Research UK honorary fellow at the charity's annual Flame of Hope awards in celebration of unflinching loyalty and dedication shown to the cause over many years.

She picked up the accolade last week at a special ceremony in London hosted by Cancer Research UK's chairman, David Newbigging.

An audience at the Russell Hotel in Russell Square heard how Isa has dedicated a massive part of her life to raising money to help fund the fight against cancer, including running the local shop as a volunteer manager for 14 years!

During her time as manager, the Rothesay shop raised more than £500,000 and still today, at the age 81, she does at least two shifts a week in the Montague Street store.

"It was a wonderful occasion," Isa told us this week.

"Four members of my family have died from cancer over the years, and that's why I joined up to help 21 years ago.

"I was quite surprised to find out I'd been chosen to get an award - you volunteer because of your own experience and because you want to help, not because you might get an award one day."

The charity's chief executive, Harpal Kumar, said: "Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against the disease.

"However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers and supporters, without whom we would not be able to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses."

Isa was one of only 30 recipients of the award at this year's ceremony – it's also the first time any volunteer from Bute has been honoured by the charity in this way.

And no sooner had Isa returned from London than she was back among the shop's team of volunteers helping to clear the shelves ahead of a major re-fit, made possible thanks to sponsorship from several large local firms.

The refurbished shop is due to re-open to customers this Saturday, July 3.