A TEENAGER who has been raising money for charity has been nominated for this week’s Bouquet of the Week.

Ruby Anthony, 12, from Middleton St George, has been raising money this Christmas to help Parkinson’s Disease and Cancer Research.

She was nominated by her mum, Hayley, who said: “We call her ‘Ruby Raisin’ because she is raising money for her grandad.

“Grandad has Parkinson’s disease and was also diagnosed with prostate cancer late last year. Grandad Brian is at high risk and susceptible to picking up infections easily. He had sepsis twice within a year. We are fortunate he is still with us today and never thought he would be after being so very poorly in intensive care. The odds were against him and doctors did not have much hope. We are so lucky and blessed.

“Ruby is making chocolate Christmas puddings and Christmas tea lights and all the money she raises will be shared between the two charities, to raise awareness and to help others. She’s been very busy and gets straight on with it after a school day. She gets home, washed and changed, has tea, does her homework and then gets on with her charity work. She’s an incredible little lady and we are so proud of her. “We are overwhelmed by the amount of orders and donations received so far and truly grateful.

“What started out as a target of making and selling perhaps five or even ten, has been completely reached and smashed.

“We wanted to say well done to Ruby and thank you for what she is doing in aid of her grandad’s illnesses.”

To nominate a person or group for Bouquet of the Week, email jo.kelly@ newsquest.co.uk, making sure to include a daytime telephone number. Flowers are provided by Heavenly Scent, Bondgate, Darlington, telephone 01325-389933.