A DEDICATED care assistant has been named newcomer of the year at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Angela Magnusson, who works at Wynard Woods care home at Billingham in Stockton-on-Tees, was selected from candidates from across the North-East at the regional heats of the Great British Care Awards.

She will go on to represent the region at the national finals in London next year.

The judges were impressed by Ms Magnusson’s passion for her work, with one commenting: “Angie sparked with enthusiasm for her job and we were swept away with her dedication, empathy and insight.”

British Army veteran, Simon Weston OBE, who is well known for his charity work after suffering severe burns during the Falklands War, presented the award to Ms Magnusson at the glitzy ceremony in Newcastle last month.

Supported by the Department of Health, the Great British Care Awards celebrate excellence across the care sector and pay tribute to those who have demonstrated excellence in their field of work.

Wynard Wood, a 36-bedroom home operated by Ideal Care Homes, was also represented in the regional finals by senior carer Rasto Hudak, who was shortlisted in the Care Home Worker category, and housekeeper Theresa Smith, who was a finalist in the ancillary worker category.

Patricia Slater, home manager at Wynyard Woods, said: “We are all extremely proud of Angela, Rasto and Theresa for being part of the Great British Care Awards.

“It is a testament to their hard work and dedication, which contributes to making Wynyard Woods a great place to live”.