Courtney Hughes has previously been awarded the British Citizen Award by Theresa May for her contributions to the community, as she started a Christmas ‘Secret Santa’ charity collection when she was just 13-years-old after her great-grandmother had to spend Christmas in hospital.

In the seven years since its creation, the charity has raised over £100,000 worth of donations that are distributed to children and older adults in hospitals and care facilities throughout the county.

A royal invitation

Courtney’s charitable efforts will be celebrated again on 19 May, when she will be amongst the 1200 special guests at the Royal Wedding in Windsor Castle; a fact that the 20-year-old still finds surprising.

“I was with my mum when I got the letter and I was just in shock. I asked ‘Is this real?’ I thought someone was pranking me.

“It’s an honour to be asked and it’s a big thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last seven years. Without the support, the charity wouldn’t be where it is today: bringing so much joy and happiness to people in need.”

With the event scheduled to take place in two weeks’ time, Courtney is now focussed on getting ready to enjoy the big day with her mum, who will be her guest at the wedding.

“Now I just have to find an outfit that’s comfortable and suitable, though I do have my hat already.”

A career of giving

In addition to running her Secret Santa initiative year-round, Courtney also works full time as a healthcare assistant at Didcot Community Hospital.

“Spending time with the patients is my favourite thing,” she said.

“I like talking to them and lots of little things about my work, like doing their nails for them.”

Find out more about the work that our healthcare assistants do.