Northumberlamd family in running to claim charity's volunteer award

A kind-hearted family have been nominated for a special prize after raising more than £5,000 for charity in honour of a loved one.
Ellis Kerton, Stewart Kerton and Ebb Kerton.Ellis Kerton, Stewart Kerton and Ebb Kerton.
Ellis Kerton, Stewart Kerton and Ebb Kerton.

The Kerton family, from Amble and Hauxley, are shortlisted for the inaugural Huntington’s Disease Association (HDA) Volunteer Awards, which will be decided by a public vote.

The accolade has been launched to recognise and celebrate the success of the charity’s volunteer fund-raisers.

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The HDA supports those affected by the disease, which is a hereditary disorder of the central nervous system. As it progresses, suffers can experience symptoms such as involuntary movements, difficulty in speech and swallowing and weight loss. There is no cure, but medication can manage some of the symptoms.

The Kerton family have been raising money for the cause in honour of relative Barbara Kerton, known as Nicki, who had the disease and died in September, aged 61.

Her granddaughter Ellis said the family are honoured to be in the running to be crowned Most Inspiring Volunteer 2016.

They have been taking part in the Great North Run to raise money for the charity for five years. In 2014, three generations – grandad Ebb, who was married to Nicki, father Stewart and his daughter Ellis – all took part. In 2015, Stewart’s wife Amanda joined the team and again they raised a huge amount of money.

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The family also organise local events to raise extra funds and awareness. A fund-raising event is taking place at Angie’s Tavern, Amble, on Sunday, April 3, from 2pm. They will be taking on the Great North Run again this year, and Ellis and Stewart will be doing the Morpeth to Newcastle marathon in July, on her 19th birthday.

The HDA website states that the Kertons’ ‘passion, spirit and dedication to supporting the charity is astounding’. The family are up against six others from around the country. To vote, visit hda.org.uk/news/306 or call 0151 331 5444.