Lutzy Carvalho Dias

I would like to nominate my good friend Maria (Lutzy) to carry the Torch in Devon. I have known Lutzy for over 8 years and found her to be one of the loveliest, kindest people that I know. My main reason for nominating her is because of her tremendous fundraising efforts to help a local charity called Powerpack (powerpack.uk.com). This charity helps local disabled children interact with their siblings and enables them to function as families. Initially I persuaded her to run a small local run for charity and then persuaded her to run the London Marathon. Since that first time 3 years ago, she has now completed a further 2 London marathons - raising a fantastic £32000.00 for Powerpack. Considering she works 7 days a week running her small coffee shop this is no mean feat and takes tremendous dedication. Before she ran her first marathon Lutzy had not done very much running at all (we were members of the same gym) - and it was my badgering that made her go out to train - and the thought that her fundraising would help the children. She always puts other people first and always has time to help people.I know that she has also helped a local disabled lady to buy a new wheelchair. Lutzy is also a well known figure in her cafe and always finds the time to talk with her elderly customers some of whom count on her for a daily chat. She always puts other people first and always has time to help people. I know that she would consider it a great honour to carry the torch.