Sutton Bridge Family Support Worker Amanda is honoured in the Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian Education Awards

A family support worker who went beyond the call of duty has been honoured at the Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian Education Awards.

Sutton Bridge Westmere Primary School's Amanda Cooke was presented with the Support Staff Member of the Year for her work with families during the pandemic.

She received the award from sponsor Craig Delaney, partner of Calthrops Solicitors, during a ceremony in Springfields Event and Exhibition Centre.

Not only did she provide vital emotional support but Amanda would deliver food and money to families. She conducted home visits, supported children affected by domestic violence and mental health issues..

Amanda, who has thanked the team at Westmere, said: "My job is not 9-5, it is part of my life. I love my job and I am lucky that the parents listen to my advice. They take on board what I advise them to do so they get good outcomes."

Runners-up were Fleet Wood Lane School caretaker Heather Hudson, who ensure high standards of cleanliness, and Spalding Academy's cover supervisor Mark Lewis, who trained 30 people on covid testing.

In presenting the award sponsor Craig Delaney, partner of Calthrops Solicitors, praised support staff for their hard work.

He said: "Support staff are unsung heroes. People who are in the background supporting the vital work that goes on and this is a very important category."

• All photographs from last night's ceremony are available for sale in photos.iliffemedia.co.uk