A DEDICATED volunteer was treated to a glamorous day out as a thank you for her hard work.

Vera Richards, from Crook, is one of the longest serving dining room volunteers at Minsteracres, a Christian retreat near Consett.

To thank her for her dedication, the charity chose her as its representative at a special garden party at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland to celebrate Volunteers’ Week.

Nuala O’ Brien, Misteracres communications manager said: “Vera was nominated by Minsteracres to represent us at the event because of the unstinting effort she gives us and the pleasure she takes in her work. Needless to say she was the only one surprised that she was put forward.”

Mrs Richards’ excitement was made all the greater as she was able to take her daughter-in-law, Jackie, who was visiting from Australia at the time.

She said it had been a fantastic day and that she had “loved every minute” adding, “It’s an experience you’ll never repeat.”