An award from the Prime Minister has been handed to a charity boss by a senior politician.

Rob Wilson, minister for civil society, visited Hertfordshire-based charity Small Acts of Kindness this week to present the special award on behalf of Theresa May to the charity’s CEO and founder Lynne Misner.

READ MORE: Government minister visits Watford-based charity

The award, accompanied by a personal letter from the PM, was given to Lynne in recognition for her work founding and growing the charity which she set up to tackle loneliness and isolation among older people in the cold winter months.

Providing gifts of warming winter items, the charity also supplies special Christmas presents for those who may be alone at Christmas.

“I am honoured and humbled to have won a Point of Light award and share it with everyone who has helped make this project a reality” said Lynne.

“I will never cease to be moved and inspired by the difference that can be made to an older person’s life by a small act of kindness.”

She added: “My dream is that within five years Small Acts of Kindness projects will be able to reach every older person in the UK who needs them. Winning this award makes that dream ever closer to happening – thank you.”

In a personal letter to Lynne, the Prime Minister said: “Your gift bags are bringing warmth and comfort to older people across Hertfordshire during the winter months. Through Small Acts of Kindness you are tackling loneliness and isolation by showing you care.”

The project distributes ‘Warm in Winter’ gift packs to older people across the county, providing warmth and comfort to 800 people in the region.

The packs include a large blanket, thermal socks, hat, gloves, and a mug containing tea, coffee, instant soup, and hot chocolate.

Lynne added: “There is a great need for this project, and it really makes an impact on people’s lives. It also brings together a range of organisations in a unique way to bring the community together.”