An M&S manager who was born with a hearing impairment has been given an award.

Anupa Shah, 52, from Friern Barnet, has been recognised for her work while at M&S at intu Watford.

Mrs Shah, leads the menswear department at the store, and having worked in customer service most of her life, this the first time she has earned this amount of praise.

Watford Observer:

Anupa pictured with M&S chief executive Steve Rowe

She said: "I have always been hard of hearing. I was born with this and have always got by by lip reading. Hearing aids haven't really helped me and I have encountered lots of challenges in my life. So to win this award is just the icing on the cake.

"I have met some very supportive people in my life and and people are always motivating and encouraging me. I am extremely grateful to the regional team and those at Watford for supporting me and believing in me. I would also like to thank my husband Urvesh and my son Kavi for their unconditional support.

"My mission is to spread the awareness of disabilities and increase understanding of them in society."

Mrs Shah was one of just 28 winners out of 33,000 nominations for M&S national annual service award.

Watford Observer:

Anupa pictured with Jo Moran, head of customer services