A CLACKMANNANSHIRE teacher has received a Point of Light award from Prime Minister David Cameron, in recognition of his voluntary work.

For the last seven years David Clifford, a teacher at Alva Academy, has helped lead fundraising events and challenges in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Alongside two colleagues, he steered the school’s efforts to become one of Macmillan’s most successful fundraisers for the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning and was chosen for the award on Thursday (25 September).

David said, “I am extremely humbled yet incredibly proud to accept this prestigious award on behalf of Alva Academy. The dedication and generosity shown by our pupils, staff and wider community never fails to amaze Kirsty, Shiona or myself.

“We have seen the phenomenal work that Macmillan do and we are proud to play a small part in supporting their work with those affected by cancer.” The award recognises outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others, and each day someone in the country is selected to receive it.

Prime Minister David Cameron said, “David leads a team of dedicated students and teachers and has raised an incredible £100,000 for Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning initiative over the last 10 years.

“Thanks to David’s guidance and help Alva Academy is the highest non corporate fundraiser in the UK for the event. I am delighted to recognise David as a Point of Light today.” Alva Academy has raised over £100,000 since 2003 and David supports a group of sixth form students at the school that leads on the fundraising, alongside fellow teachers Shiona Finn and Kirsty Bennie, on the Alva Academy Charity Committee.

His dedication and guidance on the committee has enabled the school to continue to fundraise and it is on track to raise over £20,000 this month alone for Macmillan.

In recognition of the school’s work, it was awarded the Douglas Macmillan award, Macmillan’s highest accolade for their phenomenal contribution to the organisation in 2011.

Macmillan’s Director in Scotland, Elspeth Atkinson, said, “David and his team of sixth form pupils are hugely deserving winners of this award and we are delighted their hard work and dedication has been recognised.

“Macmillan couldn’t provide the vital practical, emotional and financial support to people affected by cancer without support like this.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the pupils and teachers at Alva Academy who do so much to support us year after year.”