A SPECIAL Needs teacher who has spent two years living and working in Romanian orphanages has received a top accolade from a St Helens womens' group.

Helen Boardman from Vincent Street, St Helens, was awarded the annual 'Woman in the Community Award' by Soroptomist International of St Helens, in recognition of her volunteer work in the former communist country.

Helen (32) has spent her time helping to educate staff to improve the health and emotional care of special-needs children, relying on her own savings, the sale of personal possessions and donations to fund the work.

The award was presented at the annual general meeting of the St Helens Soroptomists where Helen, who is still in Romania, was represented by proud mum Marion and sponsor Mrs Coupe who accepted a £30 book token on her behalf.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.