A childminder from Ashtead has won the Nursery World Award for ‘childminder of the year’ last week after parents entered her name into the competition in secret.

Joanne Marvel was announced as the winner of the national award during a black tie event held at the Brewery near the Barbican on Saturday, September 22.

The Ashtead childminder who has been in the industry for 21 years is said to have only discovered about the nomination once she made it to the shortlist.

The event featured a drinks reception, three course meal, awards ceremony and after party.