A baker was lost for words after being praised for her huge efforts for charity.

Members of the Weight Watchers club who meet in Aberford Hall every Thursday morning put their heads together to organise a surprise presentation for a ‘dearly loved’ friend.

Jean Bartropp joined the group with her husband around three years ago, and has since raised around £2,000 for various charities through her baking.

Under group leader Sam Ireland’s permission, Mrs Bartropp began making cakes and biscuits – using Weight Watcher recipes – to sell with a cup of tea at each meeting.

Money was then collected for one specific charity once a month, and has so far been donated to 19 charities from Cancer Research to Herts and Essex Air Ambulance, and the NSPCC to Parkinson's UK.

Vanessa Riley, who helped organise the presentation, said: “She is a very generous lovely lady and we want to reward her by way of a presentation as Jean would for the first time in her life be lost for words.

“She is a valued member of our community and loved dearly.”

Mrs Bartropp was presented with flowers and a certificate in the presentation held at this week’s meeting, which was attended by Hertsmere Mayor Councillor Carey Keates and wife Shirley, who praised her for her hard work and generosity.