A care assistant praised by her peers for her compassionate ways has been awarded at a ceremony.

Sima Bayliss, has worked at The Spinney, a residential and dementia care home in Forest Rise, Chingford, for 14 years.

She is the sixth employee to win the 'Heart of Gold' award, which recognises outstanding employees for their dedication and commitment in providing high quality care and compassion to all residents.

Nominations for the award came from residents and their relatives, co-workers, social workers and local health professionals.

Care home manager Juliette Oates, said: "Those who have been nominated do not just do their jobs, they consistently demonstrate compassion and dedication to make our residents lives better each and every day.

"Sima is particularly special though – she really does have a heart of gold.

"She cares deeply about our residents and is always smiling and helpful and always doing kind deeds for the people around her."

The Enfield resident was presented with a commemorative etched glass plaque and a Tiffany&Co. necklace yesterday (September 14) by chairman Alnur Dhanani of Carebase, the company that owns The Spinney.