The 23-year-old was last week presented with a certificate and gift vouchers by PDSA Director General Jan McLoughlin, in recognition of her outstanding commitment and dedication to the veterinary charity over the past eight years.

Moira, who lives in Musselburgh, started volunteering at the High Street shop when she was at college and enjoyed the experience so much that she decided to stay.

She now volunteers every afternoon and all day on Fridays and Saturdays.

The charity relies on money raised in its shops to provide free veterinary treatment to the sick and injured pets of people in need.

Brilliant

Moira is involved with all aspects of the shop, from preparing clothes to be put on the rails to serving customers behind the counter.

In addition to her shop role, she often goes above and beyond the call of duty by organising tombolas and other events.

She has even taken part in a 15-mile sponsored walk to raise funds for the charity.

Moira said she felt pleased and very proud to be recognised in the awards.

"There's a brilliant atmosphere at the Musselburgh shop as everyone gets on really well and I always have a good time when I'm in," she said.

"I've got lots of pets so I know how important they are. I love volunteering for PDSA so it's great that my hobby is helping PDSA to care for poorly pets."

Congratulating Moira on her certificate and prize, Jan McLoughlin said: "Moira is extremely committed to PDSA and she is an invaluable member of the Musselburgh PDSA shop team. She always gives much more than is expected of her."

For more information about becoming a volunteer, contact PDSA's National Volunteering Centre on freephone 0800 854 194 or visit www.pdsa.org.uk/volunteering