A FORMER midwife at Wycombe Hospital has been honoured for her work with Buckinghamshire charity The Child Bereavement Trust.

Heather Cawthorn, of Lansdell Avenue, Booker, was awarded the medal of the Order of Mercy at a ceremony in London last week in the presence of the Lord Mayor of London.

After a career working in the NHS, including as a director of nursing in the Department of Health, Mrs Cawthorn has continued to devote many hours of her time to the bereavement support charity.

Jenni Thomas OBE, founder of the Child Bereavement Trust, praised the work of Mrs Cawthorn over the past ten years.

She said: "She is somebody who has worked in the NHS all her life and works incredibly hard.

"She was my boss at the hospital and was responsible for letting me do much of the work I have in bereavement support, and in setting up the charity. Without her help I could not have enjoyed the success I have.

"She is always willing to give up her time which is why we put her forward for this award."

The medal of the Order of Mercy recognises voluntary work in hospitals and the community.

Sir Robert Balchin, president of the League of Mercy, said: "Heather Cawthorn has done extraordinary work for the welfare of others.

"She is a marvellous example of someone who has given wonderful voluntary service to her community and we were delighted to be able, on the recommendation of her charity, to make this well deserved award."

Mrs Cawthorn added: "I was very shocked and humbled to win this award.

"I am very interested in the work of the Child Bereavement trust and I have tried to give my support whenever I can."

Started in 1994, the trust has become an internationally ren-owned charity.

The trust, based in West Wycombe, is looking for volunteers. Anybody interested can contact them on 01494 446648