A WOMAN who started fund-raising for breast cancer research after surviving the illness has been named mum of the year by a local store.

The Herbert Lewis department store in Chepstow ran a competition in conjuction with the Review to find the most inspiring mum.

The judges had a tough job in deciding the winner but gave the title to Gale Kidman, of Abercynon in south Wales, who was nominated by daughter Ceri.

Gale spent the day at the store trying on some of the Laura Ashley spring collection – and got to keep £250 worth – and had glamorous photos taken by professional photographer Charlene Morton whose studio is nearby.

Managing director of Herbert Lewis Dee Griffith said: "Gale's story is so inspirational. She has really found positives from her illness and is keen to spread the word about fund-raising for breast cancer.

"We had a great day with her and she looked fantastic in our spring collection.

"It was a hard decision to find a winner and if we could have chosen all the mums we would have."