Kerton family thank community for their award

Posted on 30th June 2016 | in Community

A fundraising family from Hauxley has been presented with the “Most Inspiring Volunteers” award from the Huntington’s Disease Association.

The Kerton family have been fundraising for Huntingdon’s Disease for many years, and were astonished to be voted winners at the recent charity awards ceremony held in Liverpool.

Ellis Kerton, her father Stewart and grandfather Edwin received the award for their fundraising and awareness-raising activities, including taking part in charity races, including the Great North Run for the last five years.

Ellis-with-award

Ellis Kerton with the award

The win was as a result of the number of votes the family received on social media.

“When we got there and started getting to know the other people there, I thought there’s no way we would win,” said Ellis. “We were up against seven other competitors. When it was announced, it was insane. I thought ‘oh my god!’”.

Edwin (known to his friends as Ebb) Kerton, whose wife Nicki had the disease for 20 years and died last year, said “I felt very humble. Also bittersweet. We are raising money for a cause that affects us all.

“It was fantastic to meet the others and I felt unworthy. So many others try so hard to raise funds and awareness. Everyone should have got an award.”

Hannah Longworth, Community Fundraiser and Social Media Lead for the Huntington’s Disease Association said “In addition to their annual Great North Run challenge, the family organise local events to raise extra funds and most importantly awareness.

“The Kertons’ passion, spirit and dedication to supporting the HDA is astounding. We can’t thank them enough for all they have done. They truly are deserving winners.

Ellis hopes to take part in the Robin Hood Marathon and the Great North Run in September. “It seems appropriate to run the GNR; my granda Ebb and grandma Nicki took part in the very first one in 1981.”
Huntingdon’s disease is hereditary and support networks for those affected is vitally important.

The family wanted to thank everyone who supported their fundraising day in Angie’s Tavern in April.
Ebb was also grateful for all the votes cast by friends and family.

“It was the community that won it for us. We’re so grateful to everyone who voted for us. Without the community behind us, we’ve got nothing. It’s a credit to the community.”

Anna Williams

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