A remarkable carer from Chiswick who has attended to the needs of both her disabled son and ill mother-in-law for 20 years has been recognised for her dedication.

Judith Sheppard, 54, has been juggling young and elderly care needs for her son Stuart, 20, who has FOXG1 syndrome known as a seizure disorder, and mother-in-law who is over 90-years-old and has complex care needs.

She was one of 11 people to receive the British Caregiver special recognition award trophy and £100, as part of a scheme created by the National Accident Helpline to shine a light on the dedication shown by millions of unpaid carers.

Mrs Sheppard is also the chair of trustees for a charity to raise awareness of FOXG1 Syndrome (www.foxg1.uk), a newly recognised genetic condition, and is co-founder of the Our Barn youth club for young people with learning difficulties in Brentford.

On receiving the award, a surprised Mrs Sheppard, said: “We are a close family and we just accepted that we have to muddle along as best we can.

“Being a carer is not something that you choose to do. It is something that you have to accept and get on with. It was only when I was seriously ill in 2013 that I realised how dependent we are on everything running smoothly.

“I am really proud to be able to accept the award but I would not be able to do it without the support of my very special group of friends so the award is as much for them as it is for me.”

Mrs Sheppard was nominated for the award by friend Karen Adams.

National Accident Helpline managing director and chair of the judging panel Simon Trott added: “Unpaid carers face enormous challenges, many of them carrying out their caring role seven days a week without a break for months and even years.

“We were very moved by Judith’s outstanding care for her family, as well as juggling her own commitments and health issues, and her work with young people.”

Last week we also reported of a council whistle-blower who raised concerns about 'unsafe' care home in Chiswick and awarded £20,000 in compensation.

In May, a student at Brunel University was praised as an unsung carer for caring for his mother and sister on top of his studies.

For more information on the award, and how to enter next year, visit The British Caregiver Award web page.