An ambulance worker from Bolton was invited to Parliament by her MP as part of International Women's Day.

Bolton MP Yasmin Qureshi invited Melissa Ozcan, who works for North West Ambulance Service and is a UNISON trade union steward, to a reception in Parliament hosted by the Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer.

The reception brought together women healthcare workers from across the country to acknowledge the work they do in local communities across Britain and gave the opportunity for guests to meet with senior members of the Women’s Parliamentary Labour Party and other healthcare workers.

Melissa said: “It was a pleasure to attend the International Women’s Day Parliamentary reception hosted by the leader of the Labour Party and meet many of the Women’s Parliamentary Labour Party and get the opportunity to chat to them about my experiences on the frontlines of our public services.”

Ms Qureshi said: “As Shadow Women and Equalities Minister, it was a pleasure to welcome Melissa to Parliament for this International Women’s Day event.

“Healthcare workers like Melissa keep our public services from crumbling.

“They are on the frontlines day in day out ensuring our NHS can serve our communities right across Britain.

“Melissa’s role at the North West Ambulance Service is vital to ensure that we have quick responses to major incidents and her additional role supporting staff in disputes is a level of commitment to her colleagues that is to be admired.”