A care company director is celebrating success after winning an industry award.

Hazel Evans, of Extra Hands, was presented with the Harold Bodmer Outstanding Achievement Award at the Norfolk Care Awards 2018.

Mrs Evans started the company with her husband David 25 years ago and together they operate a well-being check service for Dereham residents as well as other services across the county.

Mrs Evans said: 'I am absolutely delighted to have won this very special award.

'I have been working in care since 1987 and my passion and drive has always been to raise the profile of social care in Norfolk.

'To win this accolade is an absolute honour both personally and for my company and I am very proud of the outstanding levels of service that Extra Hands has provided over the last 25 years and will continue to do so for many years to come.'

The company, which has now won at these awards for the fourth time in five years, was also highly commended in this year's Promoting dignity and Respect in Everyday Life category.

A total of ten categories were subject to the judging panel, with strict criteria to be met in each area of the caring profession.

The Harold Bodmer Outstanding Achievement Award was created in memory of the former executive director of Norfolk County Council's adult social services who died suddenly in July 2016.

Mr Bodmer died at the age of 61, after collapsing at a meeting of the county council's health and social care executive.

His widow Julie presented the award in her late husband's honour, to Mrs Evans.

This year's ceremony was held at Sprowston Manor, near Norwich, and hosted by actor, comedian and writer Karl Minns.

Earlier in the year there were fears that the event would not be able to go ahead, but sponsors came through to again put on the night of celebration for the fifth year running.

- Have you won an award for doing something remarkable in your community or profession? Contact reporter Donna-Louise Bishop by emailing donna-louise.bishop@archant.co.uk or ringing 01362 854705.