A music therapist from Bylchau has won a prestigious award at the Wales Care Awards.

Ceri Rawson was named joint winner of the Sir Bryn Terfel Foundation Wales Care Award for promoting the arts in social care.

She was presented with the accolade at the ceremony at Holland House Hotel, Cardiff, which was hosted by radio and TV presenter Jason Mohammad.

The awards recognise the efforts of individuals and groups who use their artistic talents to improve the well-being of people in care.

The award is sponsored by the Pendine Arts and Community Trust, founded by Mario and Gill Kreft, owners of the Pendine Park care organisation, to promote arts and community initiatives across Wales.

Ms Rawson said she was 'overwhelmed with emotion' and 'extremely proud' to have received the award.

She said: "I am so thrilled to think that the value of music therapy in social care has been recognised like this.

"I love my job and I feel humbled that through my work I can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable people in society."

Ms Rawson, a qualified music therapist, has been nominated for three awards this year.

She is now hoping to explore new forms of music therapy, including its potential use in pain relief.

She said: "There is significant research which indicates that enjoying music can help ease pain among those who suffer chronic conditions.

"I am excited to become involved in this side of music therapy in the future."

She was nominated for the Sir Bryn Terfel Award by Sarah Edwards, the artist in residence at Pendine Park, where her music therapy project brought smiles to the faces of residents.

Ms Edwards said: "Ceri is an exceptionally talented music therapist and we were delighted when she came to sing for us at Pendine as part of our diverse enrichment programme.

"She visited all our homes in Wrexham in turn, bringing joy, laughter, fun and much musical merriment wherever she went.

"We all congratulate her on her win and we hope to welcome Ceri back here at Pendine Park very soon for much more music magic."

Ms Rawson lives on a sheep farm with her husband and three children.

They watched the event online and were thrilled to see her win.

She said: "I was over the moon when they sent me a text message saying 'Nice One, Mum!' after they saw me collect the award."