A KENDAL charity worker is a finalist in this weekend’s prestigious Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAS).

Marian Graveson, from Kendal, works with the Kendal-based charity Carer Support South Lakes.

The EVAS are the largest business awards, outside London, dedicated solely to women.

“It was a fantastic surprise and I’m delighted to be a finalist in the EVAS,” says Marian.

“It was an honour to be nominated in the first place and I hope the publicity surrounding the awards will raise the profile of Carer Support South Lakes.”

She joined the charity on a temporary basis for just two weeks, but soon became determined to play a more significant role.

She became Carer Support’s Office Manager and Community Fundraiser in February 2018 but from April 2020 took on the role of Business Development Manager.

“Community fund raising is vital when it comes to making a difference in the lives of unpaid carers,” said Marian.

“It has been exceptionally difficult during the three lockdowns we have faced since the start of the pandemic. We have only been able to continue supporting unpaid carers because of the brilliant teamwork of all those involved with Carer Support.

“I see the EVAS nomination as a recognition of all the hard work put in by every member of the team here - including the many volunteers without whom we could not operate. I’m thrilled and delighted by that recognition.”

This year’s award ceremony takes place at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Friday.