A WOMAN who has supported young people with cancer has been named as a charity's volunteer of the year.

Juliet Sykes, 57, from Hove, was announced as the winner of the accolade by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

Ms Sykes was inspired to volunteer at the charity after hearing Dame Ellen being interviewed on the radio by Chris Evans while driving to work.

She said: “It was one of those moments where I literally had to pull the car over and stop.

“I had goosebumps all over my body. I just knew it was something I had to be involved with because of the passion Ellen spoke with and the difference it made to young people’s lives.”

The trust offers sailing and outdoor activities, where young people can meet others who have similar experiences, often for the first time, and rediscover independence away from home and begin to realise what they are capable of again.

Ms Sykes said: “To be recognised for doing something that has enriched my life beyond bounds is just unbelievable.

“It’s literally enriched my life beyond all bounds. I see young people and what they get out of it, the platform that it gives them where they can share their own experiences and their hope.

“They can relate to their similarities rather than their differences. It’s given me a far better respect for my own life.

“The best bits are the belly-aching laughter and the fun, and the people, the family spirit of it all, the support.

“I get far more out of volunteering than I put into it, and I can’t imagine not being part of the Trust anymore.”

Ms Sykes was nominated by young people who have been supported by the trust and her fellow volunteers within the charity.

One nomination said: “She brings an energy and enthusiasm which makes young people, including myself, on the trips have a wonderful time.

“What’s more, her joy and verve makes the trips feel like a safe, supportive place to be.”

Founded by the record-breaking yachtswoman in 2003, the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust inspires young people aged eight to 24 to believe in a brighter future through and beyond their diagnosis.