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Gill Brown has been named Regional Pride of Britain Fundraiser 2025, following her extraordinary fundraising efforts which have seen her raise nearly £500,000 for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

Gill received the honour on Friday, 19 September, and will now go on to the national finals of the Pride of Britain Awards in October, proudly representing the West Country.

For nearly two decades, Gill has been the quiet force behind thousands of collections, events, and bucket shakes in support of CHSW.

Her tireless efforts have brought communities together to support babies, children, and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families, ensuring they receive vital care, comfort, and dignity.

Even after receiving her own terminal cancer diagnosis, Gill didn’t slow down. In fact, just two days after major surgery, she was already on the phone to the team at CHSW’s local hospice, Charlton Farm in Wraxall, asking how she could help next.

“Health professionals told my family they didn’t think I would make it,” said Gill. 

But I told them, look at me, I’m here now, and I’m not going anywhere. I’ve got work to do!

In her hometown of Bridgwater, Gill has made it her life’s mission to get the community involved in everything she and her committee organise. What began with a Christmas event in her garden, complete with a visit from Santa and a disco, has grown into a local movement. Her passion has rallied volunteers, inspired donations, and helped shine a light on the critical work of CHSW.

Her recognition at the national level not only celebrates her extraordinary efforts but also highlights the essential services that the hospice provides.

Children’s Hospice South West supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the region. Its three children’s hospices, including Charlton Farm in Wraxall, offer respite stays, specialist play, sibling support, and compassionate end-of-life care. With less than 11% of its £14 million annual running costs funded by the government, CHSW relies heavily on public donations.

Lucie Perryman, Area Fundraiser for CHSW, said: 

Gill is a beacon of kindness, selflessness, and determination. What she has achieved is nothing short of remarkable. Her efforts have directly helped hundreds of families during the most difficult times of their lives.

Gill reflected:“ My husband actually said to me the other day, ‘If you didn’t have the children’s hospice, I don’t think you would still be here.’”

The Pride of Britain Awards celebrate extraordinary individuals across the UK whose work often goes unrecognised. Gill’s win is not just a personal triumph. It is a testament to the power of community-led fundraising and the incredible impact one person can have through dedication and heart.