A KEEN philanthropist has been appointed to help charity Wessex Heartbeat raise thousands for heart disease research.

Tina Wellman Hawke, a well-known local fundraiser and Pride of Britain finalist, is no stranger to charitable giving. She launched her own charity following the loss of her husband Dave who died of lung cancer in 1999.

Since its inception in 2000, The Dave Wellman Cancer Trust is heading towards raising half a million pounds for cancer charities.

After almost 20 years of fundraising, Tina has decided to branch out and lend her fundraising skills to Wessex Heartbeat in addition.

She said: “My mum passed away from heart disease and I have friends whose children have also been diagnosed, so it’s something I’m very passionate about. I’m also passionate about supporting local causes, so accepting an offer to help Wessex Heartbeat was a no-brainer.”

Having raised colossal sums of money and organised events attended by hundreds of people, Tina is ready to pour her expertise into the organisation.