CATHERINE Haley, of Evesham, has won a special award for her care of elderly and disabled people in and around Evesham, Bromsgrove and Alcester.

Catherine received the award as carer of the year from her employees Helping Hands Homecare.

The company provides live-in and hourly care for elderly and disabled people in their own homes.

Praised by Helping Hands Homecare for her care and commitment, Catherine received her award after her employers received many comments from colleagues and clients about the quality of her work.

She said: "I am absolutely delighted to be named carer of the year. I thoroughly enjoy the work I do and love caring, so to be rewarded in this way as well came as a great surprise."

Tim Lee, chief executive of Helping Hands Homecare, said: "We base our decision for the carer of the year award on nominations from line managers at Helping Hands Homecare, as well as compliments from people who receive our care.

Catherine is a fine example of the sort of people we have at Helping Hands Homecare, who are committed to providing excellent care for people living in their own homes."