The married 48-year-old from Wigan was described by Prime Minister David Cameron as an 'inspiration' after setting up her own social enterprise when she was made redundant from her job as a management consultant three years ago.

The church feared it would have to sell its hall amid mounting costs, until Melanie came on board to help. Under her guidance, it was transformed into a thriving community cafe, run by Loreto Sixth Form College student volunteers, in just 12 weeks.

 

Melanie said: “It was a complete and utter shock - I had absolutely no idea.

“I'm truly, truly, honoured. I didn't know ordinary people got these."