THE winners have been announced in the Daily Echo Proud to Care Awards 2017.

Prizes were presented at a celebration lunch held at the Hamworthy Club in Poole.

Around 100 people attended and heard the stories behind the three finalists in each of 12 categories.

Overall winners were then invited to stage to receive their awards from the generous sponsors who backed the inaugural event.

Opening the event, Daily Echo Editor Andy Martin said: “As a community newspaper we are thrilled to be part of this celebration. We are very proud and honoured to be able to celebrate your work, your skill and your dedication.”

Care Home Worker of the Year was Angel Kanin and the award for Care Home of the Year went to Aranlaw Care Home. Carey Mackay was named Home Care Worker of the Year Dementia Care Worker of the Year was Carol Hiscock and nine-year-old Jasmine Wright was named Young Carer of the Year.

Palliative Care Worker of the Year was Florinda Prestoza, Zoe Sheard was named Volunteer Carer of the Year and the New Professional Care Worker of the Year award went to Eloise Tricksey.

Helen Parker was named Family Carer of the Year, Learning Disability Care Worker of the Year was Laura Espley-Church and Tender Care Services was named Home Care Provider of the Year. The Special Recognition Award was presented to the Older Male Carers Group.

See Saturday’s Daily Echo for a full winner’s supplement