The Marie Curie shop in Church Walk, Caterham was packed with well-wishers yesterday to congratulate Karen Green on her ten years working for the charity as a Volunteer Press Officer.

Karen joined the Marie Curie fundraising group in Caterham in 2002 as a way of 'giving something back' after the excellent care her mother received from the charity in 1994.

Yesterday (Thursday 13th September) Karen's colleagues turned out to honour her achievement at the Marie Curie shop in Church Walk, Caterham Valley. Local businessman and supporter of the charity David Gold also attended to join in the celebrations.

Karen helped with admin work when she first volunteered with Marie Curie, but then she took on the role of Volunteer Press Officer to build awareness of the charity. She has worked closely with the Legacy Department and has spoken at various events about her experience of leaving a legacy to the charity and encouraging others to do so.

In 2005 Karen was the winner of the Marie Curie Achievement Award. In addition to all the work Karen has been doing for Marie Curie, more recently Karen has worked closely with Crystal Palace Football Club and celebrities from Strictly Come Dancing who have helped a great deal to promote the charity.

To mark the occasion, Karen was presented with a beautiful celebratory cake and a bouquet of flowers, as well as a certificate. During the presentations, Community Fundraising Manager, Rosalind Hooper said: "Thank you for everything you have done Karen, we are very very grateful and long may you continue in your role at Marie Curie."

Karen plans to continue working for the charity and now chairs another fundraising group that she helped to set up in Croydon. Karen also organises the annual carol services in the Whitgift Centre with children from five local schools taking part.

When asked about what her highlights were from ten years of working at the charity, Karen said: "Meeting people from all different walks of life telling me their personal stories...and of course, teaming up with Crystal Palace!"

Following the presentations Karen said: "Thank you everybody for coming today. I cannot believe it is ten years that I've been here and it all down to my lovely mum because of the fantastic care she received. Thank you to all the team … here's to the next ten years!"

For more information about Marie Curie Cancer Care go to www.mariecurie.org.uk/