A CHILDLINE volunteer has said she is "absolutely thrilled to bits" to be recognised in the New Year Honours list.

Helen Morton has been awarded the British Empire Medal for her 12 years of voluntary work with the confidential counselling service which helps children cope with a range of problems including bullying, self-harm and suicide.

The mother-of-two and former Job Centre Plus manager said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to bits but I feel totally undeserving and quite embarrassed.

"I feel like I haven't done anything to deserve it. You do it because you want to do something and think it's right."

The 71-year-old from East Kilbride started at the NSPCC-run service in 2005, working one shift a week at its Glasgow base.

She now also helps interview, train and mentor new counsellors, and has become a key member of the charity's volunteer team.

Helen added: "It's lovely recognition. What I do for Childline is just part of my week and I get a lot from it, but it's just lovely. It's sad there is still a need for it but thank God it is there and there is somewhere for kids to turn to if they've not got anywhere else to go."

Elaine Chalmers, head of helplines for Childline in Scotland, said: "Helen is an amazing lady who always has a kind word for everyone and this award is a fitting tribute for all the care she has shown to staff, fellow volunteers and especially the young people she has given her time and experience supporting."