The Prime Minister has awarded a woman whose campaign is helping thousands of homeless people keep warm during winter.

David Cameron named Elizabeth Grier-Menager, 37, a ‘Point of Light’, a prize which recognises outstanding individual volunteers who are making a change in their communities and inspiring others.

Ms Grier-Menager, of Ealing, created the ’Wrap Up London’ campaign to collect over 42,000 donated coats to help homeless people keep warm during the colder months, with donations made at designated spots including underground stations.

Volunteers then send the jackets to refuge centres and shelters where they are given to homeless people , victims of domestic violence, refugees, the elderly and children.

The 37-year-old launched the campaign in 2011 after volunteering with a similar not-for-profit organisation while living in New York.

In the first year 2,800 coats were collected and 14,500 coats have been donated so far this year.

Ms Grier-Menager said: “I am honoured to receive this award and thrilled our efforts have been recognised by the Prime Minister.

“Giving the gift of warmth over the Christmas season is incredibly rewarding, especially when the impact is so direct.

“For someone at a women’s refuge in Brixton, for example, it meant the difference between going to an interview with warmth and dignity, and not going at all.”

MP for Ealing Southall Virendra Sharma said: “I feel proud of my constituent for her outstanding contribution to society and she deserves this award for all her efforts.”

Mr Cameron said: “Elizabeth’s ‘Wrap Up London’ initiative makes it easy for Londoners to donate their unwanted warm coats to those in need during the winter.

“Since she launched the campaign, Elizabeth has overseen the collection of thousands of winter coats, ensuring dignity and warmth to those who need it most. I’m pleased to name Elizabeth the UK’s 175th Point of Light.”