A PERSONAL banker from Baglan has been rewarded for outstanding customer service.

Angela Evans has been working for Barclays for 31 years, and has spent almost half of that time at the Port Talbot branch of the bank.

Mrs Evans has won the Barclays 2010 Amethyst Award in honour of her outstanding contribution to customer service.

Th 50-year-old mother of one has also been presented with an all-expenses paid trip for her and her husband Les to go to Barcelona.

She said: "The prize is fantastic, allowing us to experience the sites and attractions that Barcelona has to offer.

"It's wonderful to be recognised by your employer for doing something you enjoy.

"I pride myself in being part of the local community and offering the best possible service all day, every day."

Mrs Evans started her career at Barclays in Briton Ferry in 1979, but said the branch had since been demolished to make way for a block of flats.

She said: "I came to the bank after leaving school and I've been here ever since.

"I have enjoyed my time here.

"It has changed over the years, but I've just gone with it.

"I've seen the customers grow up and turn from children into adults over the last 30 years.

"I like it here because people like to come in and you get loyal customers who come back all the time."

Vision

Judges selecting winners for the Amethyst award were looking for commitment, business awareness, creativity, impact on the community, personal contribution, partnership, team working, vision and sustainability.

Port Talbot Barclays branch manager Myra Newton said: "Angela is a local girl from Baglan, totally committed to her customers and the local community.

"This is a really important way of recognising her valued contribution."