PAT Phipps started the year with a foot operation, but recovered - only to find she had breast cancer and had to scrap the holiday of a lifetime to undergo gruelling chemotherapy. She did it all with courage, determination and a sense of humour, and now she has been named Meridian Television's Supermum. The Herald's own Pat Phipps, who works as a receptionist at the Petersfield office, was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. Since then, family and friends have told of her "wonderful positive attitude" as she underwent treatment. And this week, Pat, 55, received a surprise visit from Meridian Television presenter Fred Dinenage, who presented her with the special award. A film crew burst into The Herald offices along with many of Pat's personal friends and family members to break the news on Tuesday morning. She was given a certificate and a free trip to a New Forest health spa. And she admitted to being "completely gobsmacked" by the whole event. Pat said: "Fred Dinenage just burst in and said that my daughter Rachel had nominated me for a Supermum award. "Everybody else knew, but it was such a shock to me. It was really lovely, but I could not say anything as I was totally overwhelmed. "Now I'm looking forward to ending my treatment and spending my first Christmas with my new grandson, Leo." Pat's daughter, Rachel Wellstead, had written to Mr Dinenage telling of how Pat had kept smiling - even after beginning her radiotherapy treatment. She said: "Despite being absolutely devastated, Mum kept a brave face on, so as not to worry the family. "Mum has continued working throughout her treatment and her colleagues all think that she is fantastic. "As she says, 'What am I meant to do? Roll over and die?'. She is an inspiration to us all, and the whole family, and all of her friends are very, very proud of her."