A FUND-RAISER who has generated thousands of pounds for charities has received a top community award.

Retired shop assistant Pat Roberts, of Moss Green village, has been named Bentilee's citizen of the year.

She was presented with the top honour during a ceremony at Moss Green Community Centre on Friday night.

Four other women were runners-up and received bouquets of flowers.

Phyllis Hulme, Joan Palmer and Sandra Brundreet were recognised for their work raising money for new computer equipment and promoting fitness classes in the Bentilee area, while 48-year-old housewife, Mandy Greensmith, was praised for her work with the Bentilee Panthers children's football team.

Pat had been tricked into turning up at the awards night after being told she was attending an 80th birthday party.

She was recognised for her efforts raising money for Cancer Research and the Donna Louise Children's Hospice Trust, at Trentham Lakes, through coffee mornings and other fund-raising events.

The 62-year-old said: "I was absolutely shocked when I received the award, I never expected it to be me.

"It is just overwhelming to get this kind of recognition.

"I have always enjoyed helping the charities and do as much as I can to raise funds for them.

"I am very grateful that people have thought of me.

"The charities are really worthwhile causes to donate money to and it has inspired us to get active and help in Bentilee."

The Bentilee Citizen of the Year awards ceremony was founded by Jean Mayer, left, 16 years ago.

The 81-year-old said: "We have had a wonderful night and long may Pat's hard work continue.

"I started the award because I think it is important to recognise the citizens who do things for nothing, and the contribution that they make to their community.

"Pat has raised money for some excellent causes and she is always getting involved, she is a very worthy winner."

The awards ceremony was taken over by Bentilee and District Forum two years ago.

Forum chairman Rita Dale, who is a retired union representative, said: "It was a fantastic ceremony, especially because the awards were presented by the lord mayor. Pat was so surprised when they called her name and it was lovely to see because I know how much effort she puts in to the fundraising.

"She has done some fantastic work on this estate and dedicated a lot of her time to people in need.

"I think she is an inspiration for others and fully deserves the award."

Former winner Steven Griffiths, aged 55, said: "These awards are all about putting Bentilee on the map and having people like Pat is a big help.

"Bentilee is a great estate and that is what we want people to take away from the night."