A CARE worker has beaten almost 5,000 of her peers to be named her company's best in the country.

Carolann Bird, of Caremark West Oxfordshire & Cherwell, was named Caremark's Care Worker of the Year for her continued commitment to clients and professionalism.

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The Chipping Norton resident was unable to receive her prize at a black-tie event in Warwickshire last month as she was taking care of her regular clients, but a video response to the title was played on the night.

Ms Bird said: “I can’t quite believe I’m care worker of the year, but I think it’s wonderful and something to be very proud of.

“I really care about my job and love everything about it – the company, the job and all of our clients."

The 56-year-old used to be an electrical technician, but was made redundant and has worked for Caremark for the last nine years.

She said: "Everyone told me I should be a carer because I’m always looking out for people."

Caremark offers home care, personal support, home help and companionship services.