A GLOBAL website supporting charities has honoured the work of a former Neyland mother who set up a bereavement support charity in the wake of personal tragedy.

Rhian Burke, founder of child bereavement support charity 2 Wish Upon A Star , was awarded the Outstanding Commitment to Fundraising award by JustGiving at an event in London on November 22.

The globally-renowned site said the award was their highest accolade and that Rhian scooped the prize following an outstanding number of public votes.

She set up the charity after the death of her youngest son and husband.

Speaking after winning the award Rhian, who now lives in Miskin, Pontyclun , said: “I’m speechless. I’ve been in a room full of incredible people all doing wonderful things and helping some amazing causes.

“There’s been lots of tears and lots of laughter and I am truly humbled to be amongst such passionate people.

“I lost my husband and my son in 2012 and I thought my life was over. I still have difficult days today, and I always will, but I wanted to make a difference.

“Thanks to people believing in me, and the support of the community, we were able to turn 2 Wish Upon A Star into something tangible – a real charity that not only talks about the need for support but is able to provide it.

“Our work is by no means done but the partnerships we have formed and the support we now offer is making a positive difference to families when they need it most.

“I want to thank everyone who voted for me. I think this award and what the JustGiving awards in general tell you is that if you believe in something, and you want to do something, get out there, do it and make a difference.”