A former social worker who left Sri Lanka to dedicate her life to helping people with dementia was last night named Voluntary Sector Entrepreneur of the Year.

Rani Svanberg, of Darras Hall, Ponteland , founded the Dementia Care Partnership in 1992. It has since gone on to become Newcastle's largest specialist care provider for the mentally ill.

The DCP is a carer-led organisation that provides 24-hour home support, three day centres and independent living homes for people with mental health problems.

The award, run by the Community Foundation, saw Rani receive a prize of £10,000, to be divided between professional training and development and funding for her group.

The winner was announced by the Duke of Northumberland at the Annual General Meeting of the Community Foundation at the Discovery Museum, Newcastle.

The bi-annual award was created in 2002 to recognise the entrepreneurial skills of those working in the voluntary and community sector.

After receiving her award, Rani said: "People told me that I should prepare a speech, but I didn't.

"That is why I am speechless, but I am honoured and delighted and applaud the Community Foundation for creating an award to recognise the work of the voluntary sector."

Community Foundation grants director Derry Nugent said: "Rani was chosen because she demonstrated the vision and utter determination that are the hallmarks of great entrepreneurs.

"Dementia Care Partnership's achievements are a tribute to the hard work of many people, but above all to the leadership and inspiration that Rani provided."

The Community Foundation provides funds and services to individuals, families and companies who want to help communities in Tyne and Wear and Northumberland. The other finalists were North Tyneside Disability Forum's Sue Adams, Monica Haigh of Hexham's LINKS project, the Open Clasp Theatre Company's Kathryn Mace and Catrina McHugh and Sue Taylor of Gateshead and South Tyneside Sight Service.