THE mayor of Newport presented the Braveheart Award to a Bettws pensioner who spent her childhood in and out of children’s homes.

Seventy-two-year-old Margaret Davis did not have the best of starts in life after being in and out of foster care and in a children’s home in Cardiff.

Now Ms Davis regularly meets and chats to young women in Newport to share her story and life experiences.

Community worker Jan Cleverly nominated Ms Davis, who has been fighting cancer, for the Newport’s Night of Honour Braveheart Award which honours courageous individuals.

Despite battling cancer, Ms Davis has been heavily involved with Bettws Friendship Club and makes jewellery which is sold to raise money for St Ann’s Hospice.

Jan Cleverly said that Ms Davis is proof that no matter what age you are, you can always help those around you.

On receiving her nomination, former hospital worker Ms Davis said: “I’m so shocked but really pleased.”

Each of the Community Champions nominees, from Communities First clusters across Newport, received certificates recognising their achievements.