A SECRETARY who gave up city life to work with a Worcestershire charity has been nominated for a top award.

Karen Thomas is one of six finalists in the Worcestershire Secretary of the Year competition.

Mrs Thomas, from Malvern Link, is secretary to the education and resource centre at St Richard's Hospice.

Her role involves organising further training for post-graduates, doctors, nurses, health care assistants and volunteers who wish to learn more about the hospice.

Mrs Thomas, who is originally from Kent, had worked as a secretary in London since she was 18 but decided to move to Malvern four years ago to be near her husband's family and to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

She worked as a temp for a short period, before coming across the job at St Richard's Hospice.

"I saw the job advertised and thought it would be ideal," she said. "I wanted to help other people rather than doing financial work as I did when I was in London.

"It's brilliant. I love working here. Everything I do is different and I like coming in and being busy."

She was nominated for the award by Simon Chippendale, senior lecturer in palliative care.

"It is her calm methodical approach to all matters that make Karen an excellent all rounder and asset to St Richard's," he said.

This is the first year the secretary of the year competition, organised by Kidderminster company Hewett Recruitment, has taken place.

Mrs Thomas said: "I think the awards are a very good idea. I would have thought that if you're happy in what you're doing at work, that you are recognised by your bosses, but as a profession, it's nice to be recognised."

The awards will be judged on May 27 at Hanbury Hall in Droitwich.