A moving film inspired by a young farmer from the Eden area who lost her life to sepsis has won a major national award.
Friends and family of Hannah Brown, from Dufton — who died from the condition at the age of just 26 in March 2021 — have been celebrating after a documentary they helped create took a special People’s Choice prize in the Charity Film Awards.
Those present at the awards ceremony, held at the Odeon Luxe, in London’s Leicester Square, included Hannah’s fiancé Ben Richardson, his mother Dorne, Hannah’s mother Val Brown and Graeme McAleese, godfather of Hannah and Ben’s daughter Millie.
Dorne said: “I think it was fabulous that we got so much support from everyone who voted for the film — it gives Hannah’s story the recognition it deserves.”
Created by Birmingham-based Ark Media in partnership with charity the UK Sepsis Trust, the five-minute documentary tells the story of Hannah, who died just two days after developing sepsis — sometimes known as blood poisoning.
It has helped raise awareness of sepsis among members of the farming community, who often ignore early signs of the condition — which is the immune system’s over-reaction to an infection or injury. With early diagnosis, it can be treated with antibiotics.
The film features interviews with Ben Richardson, Hannah’s parents Martin and Val and friends who spoke during the Westmorland County Show.
Picking the award up at the London ceremony was Ark Media chief executive Phil Arkinstall, who said it had been a privilege to accept it on behalf of those who had campaigned in Hannah’s memory.
“It was an emotional night at the awards, not least because the film picked up a People’s Choice award, which illustrated how Hannah’s story had impacted on so many,” he said.
“We were approached by the UK Sepsis Trust back in August last year about creating something that captured how well-known and loved Hannah had been within the farming community, while also highlighting the shock caused by her sudden loss and the importance of spreading awareness of sepsis.”
Brian Davies, of the UK Sepsis Trust, said: “The video has enabled the campaign to be featured on Global Radio, and both BBC and ITV regional news shows in the North of England.
“It also allowed the UK Sepsis Trust to seek financial support from NFU Mutual, which will allow for more resources to be developed to help show the agricultural community the dangers of sepsis that they need to consider whilst going about their daily lives.”
Hannah’s family and friends continue to be part of the campaign, including by holding a Sepsis Savvy Walk in her memory around Dufton Pike.
Despite a grim weather forecast this attracted around 60 walkers and has raised about £4,500 for the trust. A further £35,000 or so was raised through similar walks in other regions.
“I was overwhelmed by the number of people continuing to support our campaign two years after Hannah’s death,” said Dorne, adding that the fundraising walk could become an annual event.
