A WIRRAL youthworker's commitment to helping young people in crisis has earned her the title of Cheshire woman of the year.
Pat Rice, head of Wirral Council's Response service, was presented with the accolade during a ceremony at Eaton Hall, Cheshire.
The Cheshire Woman of the Year award has been organised by local volunteers to raise money for children’s charities since 1985.
It is the first time the title has ever been awarded to a local authority employee.
Pat said: "Keeping young people safe is a crucial part of my personal philosophy as well as my job.
"I believe we all have a part to play in making our communities safe, and in protecting young people.
"I have spent 26 years working for Wirral's youth service. It is a demanding, challenging and often emotional job, but infinitely rewarding.
"I am indebted to my team at Response, all of whom are prepared to go the extra mile to make a difference to the lives of young people."
Response is an agency supporting vulnerable young people who are homeless, at risk of sexual exploitation, struggling with mental health issues, self-harming and contemplating suicide or who may be struggling with substance abuse and addictions.
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