“I’ve never seen such a big bunch of flowers,” Mrs Hender said. “I was stunned. I went down to thank the florist today because I wasn’t sure what I did. I was so stunned when I was told.”

Florence Webb nominated Mrs Hender for her kindness and care to all, including her 50 years as a dedicated Red Cross worker and 15 years working at the Christian Emergency Food Centre. 

The pair have been friends for about 20 years.

“She’s a wonderful worker who will do anything at all to held anyone, at any time,” Mrs Webb said. But a modest Mrs Hender said five decades was nothing outstanding.

“I’m very blessed,” she said.

“I love to help and I’m on my own so I’m able to do it.

“I just think people are special, that’s why I do it.

“I’m very surprised and very humbled because everyone at the food centre and at Red Cross are volunteers too.”

Mrs Hender said she first became involved in the Red Cross about 50 years ago when she got married and her mother-in-law asked her to join.

“I think the Red Cross is a great organisation, it’s worldwide,” she said.

“It doesn’t discriminate and I don’t discriminate either – we’re all the same.”

Horsham Florist said people could nominate an Unsung Hero by calling 5382 1834.