A DUMBARTON volunteer has scooped a national award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to a cancer charity.

Michael Quigley, who has cerebral palsy, has volunteered at the Cancer Research UK shop in Dumbarton’s town centre for nearly three decades.

He was named a Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow at a special online presentation on October 19 in celebration of his dedication.

The charity’s annual Flame of Hope Awards acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering.

The 46-year-old knows exactly how vital it is to fundraise for the charity.

He was heartbroken after his dad, Patrick Quigley, died aged 69 from bone cancer in April 2015. And Michael is determined to do everything he can to help give families more tomorrows with their loved ones.

He’s a key part of the team at the Cancer Research UK shop on Dumbarton’s High Street who have raised a total of £3.8million since the shop first opened in June 1992.

Michael said: “I miss my dad every day. It was so sad to lose dad but he lived successfully with cancer for seven years thanks to good treatments.

“My mum and I couldn’t believe it when I got the letter to say I’d received the award. It means such a lot to us. I love my time volunteering in the shop.

“The staff and volunteers have become like family over the years. I’ve also enjoyed getting to know a lot of the regular customers.

“I’ve lived with cerebral palsy all my life and I don’t let it stop me. If someone says to me I can’t do something then chances are I’ll find a way to do it.

“I may have to complete some tasks differently but I’ll always do them. I felt proud to read in the award nomination that staff say I’ve been the constant face of Cancer Research UK in Dumbarton over the years.”

Michael was still a teenager and had just left Clydebank College when he started volunteering at the Cancer Research UK shop.

Despite a weakness on his left hand side and being partially sighted, Michael takes on all duties in the shop including sorting out stock and serving at the till.

He’s also regularly spotted fund-raising on the street in fancy dress complete with wig and tutu.