A CARE charity worker, described as 'inspirational' by colleagues, has received an accolade to recognise her efforts.

North Yorkshire charity Disability Action Yorkshire, whose home care team is based in Chapel Street, Thirsk, said Sowerby mother Heather Fleetham was the runaway winner of the Support Assistant of the Year award.

Mrs Fleetham has worked for the organisation for the five years, which carries out a wide range of duties and services to people living in their homes in Thirsk, Northallerton, Bedale, Richmond, Easingwold and Ripon.

The charity’s chief executive Jackie Snape said: “Everyone Heather goes to says she always has a smile on her face, that nothing is too much trouble, while colleagues say she always goes the extra mile.

“We are now looking to increase the home care team, so we can expand the services we provide, and help more people stay in their homes instead of having to move into care.”

The charity, which was started in 1937, owns a residential care home on Harrogate’s Claro Road for adults, aged between 18 and 65, with physical disabilities.

It also runs a training centre at its Hornbeam Park headquarters, for disabled adults who are wishing to gain the skills and experience to help them into employment.

For details about the opportunities available within the home care team, call 01845-574519.