HEALTH worker Finulua Deehan has been honoured for her work with the Romany gypsy and travelling community.

She was invited by the UK Association of Gypsy Women to take part in a volunteer awards event at the House of Lords in recognition of her work.

For the past 12 years, Mrs Deehan, of Middlesbrough, has been a health visitor and has worked with the travelling community, who sometimes find it difficult to get health services.

She said: "For instance, we have just managed to secure dental services for families who are just passing through Darlington.

"Those who live here do not have a problem with dentists, but those visiting might. But now we have arrangements in place where they can be seen by a dentist on the same day."

Mrs Deehan, who works for Darlington Primary Care Trust, said she had been delighted to be invited and enjoyed the experience, particularly meeting Lord Avebury, chairman of the all-party Parliamentary group for traveller law reform.

She said: "It is a real privilege to work with the travelling community. It was a lovely event and I had a great time."