A carer who is set to retire after 30 years has been honoured with an award.

Sue Clayton, who lives on the outskirts of Wallingford, was recognised at the Oxfordshire Care Awards earlier this month, winning the trophy for long service.

She joined the Shared Lives scheme run by Oxfordshire County Council in 1993, alongside her late husband Tim.

She said: "It’s been an interesting 30 years. I would recommend this to other people, and I often do. It’s kept me young.

"I would urge even more people to come forward and get involved."

The programme matches caring households with adults who require extra care, providing them with a place to live and grow their independence.

Over the course of her career, Ms Clayton has assisted more than 30 individuals, welcoming them into her home and giving any extra help they might require.

She was put forward for the long service award by Kerry Coleman who works for the council's Shared Lives team.

Ms Coleman said: "Sue has a big heart and encourages everyone who she supports to be as independent as they can be, but she knows when to step in and help when they need it.

“Sue has dedicated just over 30 years of her life to being a Shared Lives carer and I feel she deserves the award as she has done such a fantastic job with great humour and grace.”

Ms Clayton and her family have featured in a number of campaigns encouraging other people to become Shared Lives carers.

Her son and daughter-in-law, Sam and Abbie Clayton, also take part in the programme.

The scheme is an important part of the council’s Oxfordshire Way vision to support people to live well and independently within their own communities for as long as possible.

With Ms Clayton's retirement, the county council is looking for more people to take part in the scheme.

The council said Shared Lives carers "come from all walks of life, from different backgrounds and live in all kinds of homes".

Those who take part can earn up to £500 a week by supporting someone at home and fit it around their life and work commitments.

The scheme is open to anyone who needs extra support to live independently. A social worker or care coordinator can refer a person to the service after an assessment.

Service users include people with physical disabilities, sensory impairment, learning disabilities, mental health support needs, and those who experience difficulties with managing daily activities as they get older.