A VOLUNTEER was given a royal reception in recognition of her dedication to helping a homeless shelter in Worcester.

Sylvia Smith went to help the Maggs Day Centre 18 months ago as part of a work-based volunteer scheme through npower where she worked, and has not stopped since. Her dedication earned her an invitation to a reception in the state apartments at St James’s Palace in the presence of the Queen as part of the 50th anniversary celebration of CSV – the UK’s leading volunteering and learning charity.

Mrs Smith said: “I never expected an invitation to meet the Queen through volunteering a morning every few weeks. This was not just for me but for everyone who has given time, effort and energy to Maggs.”

And she said her visit to the palace would remain long in the memory. “It was an absolutely wonderful day,” she said.

“The Queen herself was so petite but otherwise just as you see her in the newspapers. I really couldn’t have wished for a better, more impressive day. It will stay with me forever.”

With a background in catering, Mrs Smith found it so enjoyable to cook for the 25 to 30 people who call into Maggs every day for breakfast and lunch, that she began to bake cakes and puddings to take in with her when she did her voluntary shift. And several of her npower colleagues have also given their time to the centre, helping with decorating and cleaning along with serving Christmas meals and working on the Maggs allotment.

Paul Massara, RWE npower’s CEO, said: “We are immensely proud of the commitment our employees make to their local communities and are delighted that Sylvia’s contribution to Maggs has received due recognition.”

Lucy de Groot, chief executive CSV, said: “Volunteers from across the UK were invited to the celebration.”