TRANENT postmistress Susan Thomson has been hailed as a community hero after she inspired people with her brave battle against breast cancer.

Susan, who was diagnosed with the condition a few years ago, continued to work in her job throughout her treatment.

Her daughter Samantha said she became an inspiration after appearing in front of customers without a wig, giving others fighting the condition the confidence to do the same.

Samantha said of her mum: “She goes above and beyond with her customers; they come in for advice and help and she always has time to help.”

Now Susan has been recognised by food firm New Covent Garden Soup, which is looking for the most inspirational people in the United Kingdom.

The company named Susan as its Lothian and Borders Souper Star after hearing her story.

They were told Susan worked as a local postmistress throughout all of her treatment for breast cancer a few years ago and, when customers saw her in public without a wig, many came in to thank her and to say it gave them the confidence to go without one. She also handed out bandanas that she was not using to other sufferers.

Twelve regional finalists have been chosen from across the UK, each to be rewarded with an all-expenses-paid ‘Souper Stars’ award ceremony dinner and mini-break in central London in January with a guest of their choice.

On the night, one overall winning Souper Star will also be announced, receiving a further £2,500 to donate to a charity of their choice and £2,500 of gift card vouchers to treat themselves to a well-deserved reward.

Susan said: “I cannot believe it, I am utterly shocked; what a great privilege.”