A WINCHESTER woman who has helped to raise millions of pounds for charity over the past 30 years was honoured at a ceremony in London on Monday night.

Judith Rich, 71, of Peninsula Barracks, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Fundraising Awards at the Hilton Metropole Hotel, from Mark Astarita, director of fundraising at the British Red Cross.

Her citation read: "Having set up an inspirational organisation selling charity Christmas cards, this woman's entrepreneurial spirit now generates as much as £7 million a year for good causes across the country and beyond.

"She works tirelessly, day in and day out, to raise vital funds for the good causes she works for.

"This is just a brief glimpse of her achievements, but it is her innovative approach, determination and creativity that has seen her make a real difference and impact in the world around us."

Mrs Rich moved to Winchester in 1984, and ran Charity Christmas Cards and Cards for Good Causes from a city base until retiring after 24 years in 2000.

However, she continues to be involved in numerous local and national charities, travelling to London two or three times a week for meetings and events.

When she was told of the award she was amazed.

"It was a total surprise. I thought they were joking," she said.

"I never thought of myself getting these sort of things. It was wonderful. I can't believe it.

"I ran the Institute of Fundraising awards for the first four or five years, and this is the 15th year.

"There are so many people more worthy than me.

"I spend most of my time now advising charities on governance."

Her current roles include being national chairman of the Diabetes Foundation and of Charity Appointments, a trustee of Reach and of Relate, a liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Musicians in London, and a vice-president of the Bishopgate Ward Club.

As well as visiting her family, she has a daughter, son and two stepsons, Mrs Rich spends her spare time watching cricket and listening to music.