Camilla hails ‘incredible’ Maggie’s Centres founder at Pride of Scotland Awards
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
The Duchess of Cornwall has hailed the founder and chief executive of Maggie’s Centres at the inaugural Pride of Scotland Awards.
Camilla, known as the Duchess of Rothesay when in Scotland, gave Dame Laura Lee the outstanding contribution award during a surprise presentation at Clarence House recorded earlier in the year.
More than 50 famous faces are taking part in the awards show on Hogmanay, including Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and tennis star Sir Andy Murray.
Dame Laura, originally from Peterhead in Aberdeenshire, was inspired to set up the cancer support centres by a patient she nursed.
Maggie Jenks died in 1995 and the first of the centres named after her opened in Edinburgh the following year.
Since becoming chief executive, Dame Laura has overseen the opening of 24 centres across the UK and beyond.
Giving the award to the 54-year-old, Camilla – who is also president of the charity – said: “Look at what you have done for Maggie’s. It is incredible.
“Maggie’s wouldn’t be where it is without you. To think you started off as an oncology nurse and now you have given so many people with cancer some hope and inspiration.”
Actress Elaine C Smith, who joins presenter Kirsty Gallacher to host the show from the cloisters at the University of Glasgow, said all 11 winners are “true Scottish heroes”.
The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards, in partnership with TSB, will broadcast on Thursday on STV and STV Player at 10.45pm.
