Jersey's Inspirational Woman of the Year announced

Joy Thomson was shocked to be named the Inspirational Woman of the Year

A volunteer has said she feels "absolutely honoured" to be named Jersey's Inspirational Woman of the Year.

It was presented to Joy Thomson, the chairwoman of the Women's Institute in Jersey, during a ceremony at Government House on Thursday.

Soroptimist International Jersey hosts the awards to celebrate people who have overcome obstacles in their lives and made a difference to their communities.

Ms Thomson was given the award for her volunteering in the island and her dedication to running the institute.

Jean-Marie Gavey from Soroptimist International Jersey said there were lots of deserving nominees this year

She said she was "very grateful" for the honour.

"For many years women were not regarded as anything particularly important but gradually we have managed to work our way up and it is important we recognise that," she said.

Soroptimist International Jersey is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

Jean-Marie Gavey, president of organisation, said the awards had been a major success this year.

She said it was "absolutely fantastic" to see so many women together and "every person who was nominated was an inspiring lady in their own right".

"It was extremely difficult to pick a winner and it took a little while but everyone here has made such a difference and they are all winners in their own ways," she said.