A LOYAL volunteer has received a prestigious award for long service.

Nancy Whittaker has been awarded the Queen's Medal from the Women's Royal Voluntary Service after completing more than 15 years of service with the organisation in York.

The WRVS, based in Bootham, raises funds and helps to manage tea bars at courts and hospitals in the North Yorkshire region.

The medal, receipt of which is personally sanctioned by the Queen, is awarded to WRVS members who have devoted their time to the group for at least 15 years.

Since 1985, Mrs Whittaker has worked at Bootham Park Hospital, the district hospital and the magistrates court, organising accounts and working in the tea bars.

Jean Davis, York project manager for the WRVS, said: "To receive the Queen's Medal is quite an honour.

"This is a wonderful achievement for Mrs Whittaker and also highlights the work of the local WRVS.

"Mrs Whittaker will hopefully continue her work with the WRVS for many years to come."

Updated: 12:27 Thursday, December 06, 2001