Despite families and senior managers gathering at Parklands Court Supported Living Home, team leader Honor Lamb had no idea she was in line for the CEO Commendation .. until patrons Pam Royle and Peter Barron rolled up in full fancy-dress!

Honor, who joined NEAS 12 years ago, returned to work recently after serious illness. She said: "There has never been a day when I haven't wanted to come to work. I couldn't ask for a better team around me."

Families paid tribute to the home Honor has created, decorating it herself after her return to work and holding regular events there with families such as barbecues and Christmas gatherings. They described her as a "second mother" to those in her care.

Laurence Oliver, father of Paul who lives at Parklands Court, added:

It gives us a real sense of gratitude and security that Paul is in such a happy place.

Actor Tim Healy sent a video message congratulating Honor on her special award.