A FUNDRAISER has been nominated for a national award for people who make a difference to the gay community.

Out in the City and g3 magazines have teamed up to award those make a real difference to people’s lives through business or charity.

Steph Westall, of Station Avenue, Southend, has made the shortlist of eight in the Rising Star category.

It is decided by readers of the two magazines and an online vote.

Steph, 30, who is getting married to her partner of three years, Laura Peterson, in August, has been recognised for her charity work.

She works for RBS and is the charity co-ordinator for the bank’s Rainbow Network, an employee led Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transexual (LGBT) Network.

Steph said: “I’m not sure who nominated me, but I think it came off the back of my Rainbow Network fundraiser of the year award last March after raising around £10,000 from organising many events, such as self defence lessons, abseils, 10k runs, and quiz nights for the network members to attend.

“The money went to Broken Rainbow, a domestic abuse helpline.

“I enjoy my charity work, though it is time consuming.

“It’s great to be nominated and I’m looking forward to the award ceremony in April in London.”

To vote for Steph, visit the website www.

outg3awards.co.uk before March 24.