CARING individuals have paid tribute to the teams who have helped them get recognition as part of a Barry funeral home’s Carer of the Year Awards.

Megan Davies, Gemma O'Donavon, and Lorna Hodder thanked those who nominated them for honours in A G Adams & Son’s third unsung hero and heroine awards which recognise the excellent work care establishments do within the community and the carers who look after those in nursing , care and their own homes.

Nominations were sent to all care facilities in the Barry and surrounding areas with 28 nominations returned.

An independent panel of judges chose the top three with Rev Ben Andrews, of St Mary’s Church, Barry, Joanna Hamilton, manager and superintendent registrar at Coychurch Crematorium and the Barry and District News making the tough decision.

Megan Davies, of The Beeches Residential home, took the winner’s trophy, £200, flowers and £100 to spend on activities for the home residents with Vale AM Jane Hutt and Barry mayor Cllr Claire Curtis presenting the prizes.

Seventeen-year-old Megan, of Barry, began working at the home on a placement while at Bryn Hafren comprehensive as part of the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme.

She said: “I was really happy and surprised to win.

“It’s hard work, I really enjoy it and my colleagues are really nice.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s supported me.”

Gemma O’Donavan, of Bellavista nursing home, and Lorna Hodder, of Cartref Porthceri residential home, took the runners-up prizes of a trophy and flowers.

Senior carer, Gemma, 30, said: “I was shocked and surprised because there’s so many who care out there.”

Relief care worker of four years Lorna, 24, added: “I was overwhelmed and crying.

“I just really like the job and coming to work.

“I enjoy helping the residents and making sure their days go well.

“My family are very proud. They have got my trophy in a cabinet and they don’t want me to take it out.”

Funeral director Arthur Thompson said “We are proud to be able to celebrate the extremely hard work that carers do within our community and in a small way say thank you and recognise just how much residents, their managers and colleagues value them.

“We have been privileged to have the support of Jane Hutt AM and the Barry mayor, this year Cllr Claire Curtis, in presenting the winners with their prizes. I would also like to thank the judges for their invaluable contribution."

Vale AM Jane Hutt said: “They were clearly exceptional carers in each of their Homes and much admired by their colleagues and the residents who joined in the celebrations."