A RESIDENT at Highclere House Care Home in Weymouth was honoured with a top award for her courage in the face of illness.

Joan Wilson, 95, is said to be always thinking of fellow residents.

The Home Champion Awards coincide with Older People’s Day and celebrate the contribution older people make to society. Staff said although she is not well, Joan is always thinking of other residents and asks how other people are, trying to help them in any way that she possibly can.

Joan said: “I’m so surprised to win this award. I just can’t believe it.

“We were all told about the celebrations and looking forward to it, but not for one minute did I think it would be me. It’s wonderful.”

The awards were presented by Mayor Kate Wheller, president of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce Julie Cleaver, vice chairman of Weymouth and Portland U3A Angela Scott and Dementia Action Alliance coordinator Jo Bazelgette.

Highclere House home manager Helen Holden said: “We are delighted to honour Joan today and celebrate all our residents and the contribution that they have made to home life and to our community.

“I’d like to thank everyone who attended the awards today and made them such a special event. Older people play an important role in our community and we believe that should be recognised.”