A CREWE woman is celebrating after scooping an animal charity’s award for volunteer of the year.

Karen Pickering, left, who helps out at the Crewe PDSA store on Delamere Street, was up against more than 400 other volunteers from around the UK.

She impressed judges with her passion and commitment to the charity, which raises funds for sick and injured pets.

Karen, 51, who has been volunteering for PDSA for two years, said: “It’s an absolute thrill.

“I didn’t expect to win at all. It really is an honour and I think testament to my training and the support I receive in the store.”

Karen volunteers up to 40 hours a week and often goes the extra mile to organise local fundraising events for PDSA, the most recent of which raised more than £300 for poorly pets.

“We all pull together as a team in one direction,” she added.

“And that’s what I love the most about volunteering – the camaraderie.

“I truly feel I make a difference in what I do and not everyone can say that.”