A HEADLEY woman has been recognised as a local hero by a national voluntary award scheme.
Judy Avens was one of five national winners of the Nationwide Awards for Voluntary Endeavour, which were presented last week.
She was presented with a £2,500 donation to the charity of her choice, a trophy and £500 worth of gifts for herself.
She was selected from 1,236 entries and was recognised for the outstanding work she has done in her community.
Over the past 30 years she has raised thousands of pounds for a number of charities and also shared her home with a couple who had lost their homes and jobs, until they were able to get back on their feet.
Mrs Avens has provided support and friendship to people of all ages.
She nursed her mother and father before their deaths and is presently nursing her aunt, who is 95, in her own home.
The awards were presented by British hero and paralympic gold medallist Tanni Grey-Thompson, NationwideÕs chief executive, Brian Davis, and Swindon MP Julia Drown.
Brian Davis said: ÒThe five winners have shown both selflessness and an incredible dedication to their work.
ÒThey have persevered through good and bad times to help make the lives of the people in their community a better place. It is this level of devotion and purpose which turns ordinary people into heroes.Ó
The awards are organised in association with the National Council for Voluntary Organisations and the Newspaper Society.