A care worker from Cambridgeshire has been invited to King Charles' first garden party at Buckingham Palace. 

Joe Gilbert, lead officer for care leavers at Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC), is one of several local government workers who colleagues have nominated for going "above and beyond" in their roles.

Joe was "amazed" to see his invitation in his inbox and said he felt "incredibly honoured" to have been nominated to attend.

"I wasn't aware of people being nominated for this previously, so I read it through a few times to make sure it was genuine," said Joe.

"I then had to take it to my wife to ask her to confirm I wasn't going mad!"

The garden party will be the first hosted by King Charles, and Joe will go with his wife.

Set in the grounds of Buckingham Palace, Joe will enjoy a relaxed summer afternoon among other nominees, all of whom have made a positive impact on their community.

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In his role, Joe supports young people as they transition from care to independence. He also works on initiatives to improve support from organisations outside of the council.

Joe said: "Some people may believe that once our young people leave the care of the local authority at the age of 18, that is the end of our involvement, but we still support our young people after care, working with them on their aspirations, helping them with any challenges they might be facing and ensuring they get a fair start to adult life."

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Joe added: "I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to whoever put my name forward.

"I really appreciate your recognition of my work and for you taking the time to put me forward for this. Thank you!"

Chair of CCC Cllr Stephen Ferguson said Joe was fully deserving of his nomination for the incredible work he has done in supporting care leavers.

He added: "It seems fitting that Joe will attend a royal garden party as both himself and King Charles have done so much to support young people, especially those from difficult backgrounds.

"This is a phenomenal accolade, and I'm delighted Joe has been honoured in this way."