AN UNDERTAKER in York who went "above and beyond the call of duty" when she arranged the funeral of a baby for a grieving family has been recognised for her work.

Hayley Owen, 28, has been nominated for a Community Pride Award, in the Health Service Hero category, by Sabine O'Dwyer.

Sabine's granddaughter Alexis died of breathing issues, aged just 16 days old, in December 2015.

Hayley, who has her own funeral business, in Boroughbridge Road, York, was approached by Alexis' family to arrange her funeral.

Sabine explained: "Hayley did my granddaughter's farewell, it was only her second funeral as she had just opened her business.

"She went above and beyond the call of duty. She let us get Alexis christened in her chapel of rest as she wasn't christened at hospital.

"My granddaughter was 16 days old when she passed away and Hayley took such good care of her.

"On her final farewell day Hayley and her staff were fantastic. Hayley said to me then everyone is different and so are their farewells."

Since losing Alexis, her mother Natasha Limbert, along with Sabine and other members of the family have been raising funds for York Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS). The charity provided vital support to the family after the death of Alexis.

Hayley, of Moor Monkton, has also helped the family with their fundraising efforts for York SANDS.

Sabine said: "She holds different types coffee mornings in aid of different charities which have included York Sands and we are due to hold another one on June 3.

"This lady deserves to be recognised for the hard work she does before, during and after families have lost a loved one."

Hayley is "pleased" to be nominated for a Community Pride Award.

She said: "It is very difficult for any family who lose a child. You have got to stay strong and be there for them. It's just part of the job.

"I wanted to provide Alexis' family with what they wanted and needed."

Hayley is believed to be one of the youngest female undertakers in the country.

She recently became the chairwoman of the Yorkshire division of the British Institute of Embalmers.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press in partnership with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden.

All nominees must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area.

Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October, when the winners will be revealed. Entries can be submitted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN.

You can also nominate online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 21.