Samantha Cameron welcomed the head of an Isleworth cancer charity to a reception at No 10 Downing Street in recognition of its work.

The Mulberry Centre, which is based in the grounds of West Middlesex Hospital, was among the charities hosted by the prime minister's wife at a Charity Champions event on January 13.

Its chief executive Emma Cartwright joined Mrs Cameron, Brentford & Isleworth MP Mary Macleod and other dignitaries at the reception, held to raise awareness of the important work done by charities from across the UK.

Ms Macleod, who nominated Ms Cartwright to attend the do, said: "I wanted to recognise Emma and The Mulberry Centre for their tremendously hard work in supporting anyone in our local community who has been affected by cancer."

The Mulberry Centre offers information, complementary therapy and emotional support to anyone affected by cancer, including those who have lost a loved one to the disease. It relies entirely on donations.

Ms Cartwright said: "It was a huge honour to be invited to No 10 Downing Street to meet Samantha Cameron, who clearly understands and feels passionate about the role charities play in our local communities.

"It was a fantastic opportunity to tell her about the work The Mulberry Centre does, day in, day out, to support people to deal with the impact of cancer on their lives and the lives of their friends and loved ones."

The Mulberry Centre was last summer named charity of the year at the annual Hounslow Volunteer Awards.