AN APPRENTICE at a hospice has spoken of her joy after being selected for a top award.

Carrice Dickinson was nominated for the biennial Themis Inspire and Achieve Award at a prestigious ceremony for her dedication to her role as a health care assistant at Pendleside Hospice, Reedley.

The role saw her offer respite and end-of-life care to people facing life-threatening and life-limiting medical conditions and illnesses.

She said:“I found my role at Pendleside Hospice really fulfilling.

“I really felt that I was making a difference, supporting patients and their families through the most distressing of times.

“I know that many people think of a hospice as a very sombre place, but it is really just the opposite.

"Of course, there are very sad times, but the general feeling is one of joy and happiness: families are there to make the most of every moment and create precious memories.”

The a former Colne Park High School student is now hoping to forge a career in community social care before specialising in paediatric palliative care.

She was nominated for the award by hospice day services manager Julia O'Neill.