Octogenarian care worker and rising media star Liz Thomson has added to her growing list of accolades with a national award win.

The 81-year-old activities coordinator from Balhousie Huntly in Aberdeenshire won the Shona McKenzie Shine category of the s1Jobs Recruitment Awards. The award recognises those who “go above and beyond their call of duty, offer excellent service and take pride in their work.”

Believed to be the oldest care worker in the country, Thomson was honoured at the glittering awards ceremony in Glasgow last week. Hosted by comedian Jo Brand, they honour some of the country’s top employees.

Thomson was joined by colleague Jen Aitchison, who was commended in the same category. Aitchison is manager at ASC, Balhousie’s specialist services arm.

This is the latest in a line of accolades for Thomson, who was recently a finalist in the Great British Care Awards and appeared on STV for being believed to be the oldest care worker in the country. 

Thomson leads the events calendar in the Aberdeenshire residential home for dozens of residents, organising daily activities, from afternoon teas and coffee mornings to knitting clubs and card games – and all with a spring in her step.

Born in Portsoy, Thomson worked in hospitality for many years and even ran her own hotel in the rural village of Rhynie before joining the Balhousie Huntly family when the home opened in 2012. In that time Thomson, who lives in Huntly, has built friendships with many of the residents, some of whom she is actually older than.

Thomson is humble about her impact at the care home. “I have tried retiring before,” she explained, “but I like working!” Thomson has worked in many roles at Balhousie Huntly including in the laundry team, kitchen and domestic teams, but she loves her role in the activities team most. “I really enjoy the time I spend with the residents. I’ve known some of them for years now, so organising and leading activities is always enjoyable.”

Aitchison was praised for strengthening and growing ASC and improving grades at the service, which supports adults with complex needs including challenging behaviour and learning disabilities at its Perthshire locations.

Jill Kerr, group chief executive at Balhousie Care Group, said: “It’s wonderful to see Liz and Jen’s achievements recognised. They are both an absolute credit to the company and represent everything our staff stand for: commitment, exceptional work and going above and beyond.”