AN Npower employee has received a prestigious medal for services to charity through her volunteering activities.

Samantha Schiaffino, 46, had the British Empire Medal (BEM) conferred upon her at an investiture that took place at The Guildhall, in Worcester.

Mrs Schiaffino said: “When I first received the letter through the post I thought it was a speeding fine as it had the Queen’s logo on it and before even opening the letter it looked official.

“But when I opened it I just cried.

“It doesn’t seem real.”

Around 30 close friends and family watched the investiture take place in the intimate Court Room.

The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Patrick Holcroft, said: “It’s my pleasure and honour to represent the Queen here today and to award this medal to an outstanding citizen.

“I want to show my thanks on behalf of the local community, the county and the nation - she’s done us all proud.”

Mrs Schiaffino, from Powick,was nominated by her employer, Npower, where she works as a personal assistant.

Community volunteer manager, Heather Tyrer, 41, for Npower said: “It’s certainly a labour of love for us here at Npower, where we’ve teamed up with Macmillan Cancer Support to pair employees up with someone going through a cancer struggle.

“She’s been a listener and professional friend to two ladies for around seven years, one of whom has sadly passed away.

“Her current partnership sees her go shopping and out and about with a cancer survivor.

“This venue is great - the ceremony here is fitting -a special building for a special lady.”

The ceremony on Wednesday May 29, lasted around twenty minutes with tea and cakes served to guests afterwards.

The BEM was first created in 1922 for meritorious civil or military service worthy of recognition by the Crown.

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