CancerCare has paid tribute to loyal volunteer Joyce Harris, who has passed away at 95.

Former teacher Joyce dedicated over three decades to CancerCare after her husband Glyn was diagnosed with prostate cancer back in 1984.

Together, they started a Kendal drop-in group, encouraged by CancerCare founder Professor MacIllmurray and nurse Susie Roth.

The group, running for 35 years, offered solace and companionship to locals grappling with cancer, terminal illness, or bereavement.

Despite Glyn's passing in 1992 and her own diagnosis in 2014, Joyce kept the meetings going until 2019, which saw a celebration of her 90th birthday.

Joyce also gave her time as a volunteer receptionist and housekeeper at the CancerCare’s Lakes Centre on Blackhall Road.

As a consistent voice in CancerCare’s newsletter during the 1990s, she strongly supported countless fundraising initiatives.

Speaking in 2018, Joyce said: "It was the only thing there was for people with cancer in those days. People came to find information and to ask for advice.

"People used to say: 'Don’t say that word (cancer)'

"At the drop-in we welcomed people with open arms and talked about everything."

CancerCare chief executive, Alison Stainthorpe, said: "Joyce will be very fondly remembered by everyone at CancerCare.

"She was a fantastic ambassador for the charity’s work, driven by her passionate commitment to ensuring that others in our community get the support they need when faced with cancer or loss.

"She knew how it felt to go through that and she made it her mission to help others. It was an honour to know her and work alongside her."

She is survived by her sons Christopher and Michael, along with grandchildren David, Katherine, Jane and Dan.

The family urges individuals to make donations to CancerCare in Joyce’s memory.

For further inquiries or assistance, contact the friendly team at CancerCare on 01524 381820 (Lancaster) or email tct@cancercare.org.uk.