An 83-year-old who has dedicated more than half her life to volunteering has received an award from the Prime Minister.

Barbara Waterman, from Hendon, received the Point of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers, for her work with Jewish Care at the Stepney Jewish Community Centre in east London.

Since 1970, she has spent more than 25,000 hours volunteering at the centre, which helps vulnerable people, and has raised £20,000 as treasurer of the Friends of Stepney Fundraising Committee.

She said: “I am so proud to receive this award on behalf of Jewish Care. Of the 3,500 volunteers with the organisation, it is even more amazing that I was nominated and then won.”

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Barbara has dedicated more than half of her life to support Jewish Care, directly improving the lives of the elderly Jewish community in east London.

“In Barbara they find a caring and generous woman, who for over 45 years, has provided emotional and social support for so many. I’m delighted to recognise Barbara’s service to others by making her a Point of Light.”

Hendon MP Matthew Offord said: “I am delighted to award Barbara a Point of Light award for her many years of dedication. Barbara’s commitment to the Stepney Jewish Community Centre is second to none and the amount she has helped to raise over the years is testament to this. Congratulations Barbara.”