A VOLUNTEER has been recognised for helping those in need.

Jackie Ward, 34, of Murton, County Durham, received an award from SOVA, a leading organisation helping more than 15,000 people in need in England and Wales, including prisoners and offenders.

She is one of about 1,500 mentors working with the charity, which aims to break the cycle of re-offending.

It works in partnership with the probation and prison services.

A volunteer at SOVA's Hertfordshire Probation Partnership Project for more than five years, Mrs Ward recently moved from St Albans, Hertfordshire, with her husband and two children to be closer to her family in the region, where she plans to continue her work.

Gill Henson, chief executive of SOVA, said: "It is Jackie's commitment to the offenders that sets her out as an outstanding volunteer.

"One offender she mentored was very needy.

"He even arrived at the project office one day believing that Jackie lived there.

"She was able to deal with his cries for help in a confident, sensitive and caring manner."

Mrs Ward received her award at the Kennington Oval cricket ground, in London.

She said: "I can't believe they have given this to me.

"I am sure there are many more volunteers who deserve it far more than me."