A STALWART fundraiser from Malpas has been recognised as a ‘Woman With Heart’ for her outstanding contribution to helping heart patients in Wales.

British Heart Foundation (BHF) Cymru is profiling the work of 10 women making a difference to heart patients’ lives, in the run-up to International Women’s Day, March 8.

Anne Lockett, 53, got involved with the BHF in 2006 when her father was recovering from his second heart operation.

She and her husband Richard decided they wanted to help heart patients by raising money for the BHF and, as their silver wedding anniversary was approaching, decided to accept donations instead of gifts.

This started Mrs Lockett’s fundraising and she became involved as volunteer secretary in the BHF Cardiff branch, before setting up the Newport and Cwmbran fundraising group four years ago.

One of the ideas behind raising awareness on International Women’s Day is that heart disease affects both men and women, although many women may not realise the extent, explained senior cardiac nurse at the charity Maureen Talbot.

Mrs Lockett has helped raise £22,000, according to the BHF.

“It was a bit of a surprise to be profiled,” said Mrs Lockett, who is the only woman from Wales on the list.

“I was named Volunteer of the Year a few years ago and it is a bit humbling. But I don’t do it for (recognition), I enjoy what I do.

BHF Cymru is encouraging the people of Newport to vote for Anne to become the nation’s favourite Woman With Heart at bhf.org.uk/womenwithheart. Voting closes March 3.