Long service award for Lockerbie cook

A CHEF from Lockerbie has spoken of her pride after scooping a national award for her work supporting those in residential care.

Amanda Jackson, who lives in Annan, cooks at Trinity House and Lodge, a residential service for adults with learning disabilities and autism.

She scooped the prestigious Swan Award at the Cygnet Group achievement awards in Birmingham.

It’s given to an individual who has completed over ten years of service with the organisation and continues to make a positive difference every day.

The nomination for Amanda, who has worked with Cygnet Social Care for 25 years, read: “Amanda is amazing and has a heart of gold. She takes pride in her work and is always working hard to make sure our service users have healthy meals and plenty of choice. She knows every service user well and knows their needs and wants.”

It also described her as the ‘driving force’ at the town’s Hartnell’s Cafe, where “she leads with compassion, purpose, and a genuine commitment to people, Her influence is not just culinary; it is transformational.”

A delighted Amanda said: “Winning this award has been a total shock to me, it was completely unexpected and I was very overwhelmed from the recognition.

“I was so proud and felt honoured receiving such an award. I have always strived to make the kitchen the heart of the house and to make it as welcoming as possible.

“With the recent opening of the café I feel like we can showcase the brilliant work of our residents and bring something good to the community.

“I have absolutely poured my heart and soul into my job over the last 25 years.”

Congratulating her, Professor Tony Romero, Cygnet Group CEO, added: “Amanda is an example of somebody who consistently goes above and beyond. She demonstrates passion for her work, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering dedication to our service users.”