A Thame resident has won a prestigious award for her work in animal welfare. 

Theresa Lovegrove, of Broadwaters Avenue, has been awarded Animal Charity Employee of the Year in the Petplan and Association of Dogs and Cats Homes’ animal charity awards, for her work at Blue Cross in Lewknor. 

The 26-year-old animal-lover has worked tirelessly to help homeless cats and dogs find new homes at the rehoming centre on London Road for nine years.

The centre, where Theresa started out as a volunteer but now works in their Home Direct service, was also given a cheque for £1500, which will go towards a new sensory garden for the resident dogs. 

Tim Sillis, Centre Manager at Blue Cross in Lewknor, who nominated Theresa for the award, said: “We are all so proud of Theresa for winning the award. She’s so passionate and hardworking and she’s such an asset to our charity."

Theresa, who beat over 5000 people to win the accolade, said: “I can’t believe I won – I’m so touched and would like to thank everyone who nominated me – the money will make such a big difference to the pets in our care.”

Last year, Theresa shaved her head and raised £3,700 for the charity.