AN inspirational Gourock woman who has raised more than £300,000 while battling cancer has been recognised for her 'outstanding' charity work.

Brave Molly Cuddihy, who was diagnosed with Metatastic Ewing Sarcoma at just 15, has been recognised by the Gourock Rotary Club, who named her as their Inverclyde Young Citizen of the Year 2022.

She is the first ever winner of the Dr Sadhu Gupta Award, who himself has devoted his life to charity work by travelling around the world to use his expertise to restore people's sight.

Earlier this year, his family announced they were creating the award in his honour, and invited nominations from across Inverclyde.

Some of the area's most talented young people were shortlisted and celebrated at a moving awards night.

Provost Drew McKenzie, one of the judges, said: "One of the greatest privileges and honours of taking on this role was to see for myself firsthand the incredible and talented young people we have here in Inverclyde.

"Molly was the most deserving of winners - what she has achieved is phenomenal."

Gourock Rotary Club announced the results at a special ceremony at Clydeview Academy.

Molly, 20, was presented with the honour by the retired eye surgeon, who said he was honoured for her to receive the award in his name.

After spending a year in hospital, Molly set up her own charity drive with friend Sara Millar called Every Thank You Counts, and raised £300,000 for the Schiehallion Ward at the Glasgow Children's Hospital.

Along the way she has won famous admirers including Gary Barlow, Simon Cowell and Paulo Nutini.

The cash was used to create a new recovery and social room dedicated to youngsters aged eight to 12 years.

Budding environmentalist Nina Kirk finished runner up for her exceptional efforts to raise awareness of climate change locally, while Port Glasgow teen Grace Lynch finished third for her work helping to teach children in Ghana through the Project Trust.

Commendations were also made to Clydeview Academy pupil Ben Kane, who started a student counselling service, and Skye McCabe, who runs her own Christmas toy appeal. Rosannah McKane, who volunteers with Compassionate Inverclyde, also won praise.

Gourock Rotary President Archie Mackinlay said: "Inverclyde should be proud of its youngsters. They are always thinking of others, fundraising, and raising awareness of those less fortunate here and abroad, as well as highlighting the perils facing the planet. The Rotary Club of Gourock was delighted to be involved in inaugurating this award."