A social worker who has helped provide a stable and caring environment for hundreds of vulnerable children and young people for 30 years has picked up her MBE from Prince Charles.

Joan Jackson-Callen picked up her gong at Buckingham Palace last month. The Kensington and Chelsea Council children’s social worker has run Creswick Road Hostel for young people who are looked after, or leaving care, for many years.

During this time she has shown immense dedication to those she was responsible for and worked tirelessly to provide them with a safe and secure home.

Speaking after the ceremony Mrs Jackson-Callen said: “The nerves didn’t really hit me until just before my name was announced.

"Lucky for me the time I had spent practising my curtsy was justified as I performed two.

Prince Charles thanked me for my work over the years and said that the profession was lucky to have people like me which made me feel very proud. It really was a wonderful day.”

Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, head of family and children’s services at the council, added: “I am delighted that Joan had such a special day at Buckingham Palace.

"Her MBE is well deserved and reflects so well on the care Joan has provided to some of the most vulnerable young people in the council’s care.”