A SELFLESS single mother has been recognised for always putting others above herself.

Sharon Grant, an assistant pastoral carer at Ealing Christian Centre in Northfield Avenue, Ealing, is a rock to many who know her.Friend and colleague Sherine de Mel-Haug, 29, of Greenford, said: "She's really selfless, really caring, I can't really say enough. If anyone needs her she will drop what she's doing and go to them."

Sharon, 48, of Uxbridge Road, Acton, is there for anyone in need, from helping finding a home for the man sleeping rough on the church steps, to providing a shoulder to cry on following a bereavement.

But Sherine said Sharon deserved special credit for the way she has become a lifeline for an elderly lady with Alzheimer's who attends the church.

She added: "Sharon has been like family to her, as her family live so far away and she doesn't have anyone to help with her medical needs and appointments."

Another friend, Katarina Sabah, 38, of Brentford, added: "Sharon has a heart for others. She is a single mother and has gone through her own struggles but always puts others ahead of herself."

Sharon said she was shocked to be nominated, adding: "I just like people and just do my job, it's a real privilege to do what I do."