Cute Chloe Bennett has not just inspired her mum to raise thousands for charity, she has made her a winner, too.

Chloe, who was two on Monday, was born with a heart condition that needed eight hours of surgery within a few days of her birth.

The youngster may be a picture of health now, but she still needs yearly medical check-ups and faces the possibility of further operations.

With this in mind, her mum, Steph, has been inspired to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF), organising raffles, a ball and fun days and even putting herself through the agony of a month-long chocolate detox.

Her efforts were rewarded with the 39-year-old being named BHF Fundraising Volunteer of the Year for the British Isles.

“I didn’t even know I’d been nominated,” said the delighted mum-of-four.

“I was first named local volunteer of the year, then regional and now for the whole of the British Isles, all without even knowing.

“I am just chuffed to have won it, and had a little cry, too. I don’t do it for the recognition, I do it because of Chloe.”

Steph’s last fundraiser was a ball at the Inn on the Lake near Shorne, which led to £4,000 being presented to the charity. One reveller bid £400 for a unique heart-shaped piece of jewellery that he then handed to Steph.

“I didn’t even know him and I just sobbed. I’m going to give it to Chloe when she is older.”

Steph will receive her award at a ceremony at Imperial College London this month and will be given a tour of the science laboratories where all the vital research is carried out.

“I know it’s a bit geeky, but I can’t wait,” said Steph, of Taunton Vale, Gravesend.

“Chloe has narrowing of the pulmonary artery and at some point may need stents inserted.

“The surgery she had was pioneered by the BHF and I have learnt so much about her condition. To be honest, I shouldn’t be as relaxed with her as I am.

“But she is doing good and is super-cute, very aware and very bright. She might be little, but she has inspired me and inspired others.”