A Beckenham woman has won a prestigious UK award after working to help countries share satellite images during humanitarian crises.

Alice Bunn, 41, from Copers Cope Road, was named as an “inspirational innovator” at the Marie Claire Women at the Top Awards on Wednesday (Oct 1).

Dr Bunn was pivotal in brokering an international agreement to ensure images are accessible to everyone during tragic circumstances.

It means those dealing with global disasters such as the recent disappearance of flight MH370 and the Japanese tsunami are more likely to be better equipped.

The Cabinet Office says the civil servant's work has the "potential to save millions of lives”.

Dr Bunn, the director of policy at UK Space Agency, said: “I am really thrilled to receive this award, but I am equally thrilled that there is recognition of the powerful benefits our space programmes and resulting international co-operation can bring.”

She joined fellow civil servant Emma Hopkins OBE, recognised for her efforts with Angelina Jolie and William Hague fighting rape in war, in receiving an accolade.

The awards also aimed to inspire women to pursue their career goals. 

Dr Bunn added: “I think that it's important to keep all your options open.

“It's great to have a vision of where you want to get to from a young age but be prepared to be surprised along the way.”

Head of the Civil Service Sir Jeremy Heywood commented: “I am thrilled about these two awards. They underline the calibre of the women eorking in some of our most challenging roles.

“Alice and Emma are an inspiration to all those who work hard in the spirit of public service – many of whom don’t get such high profile recognition.”

Other winners of Women at the Top included poverty activist Jack Monroe, the tech pioneer Kathryn Parsons, and the MP Shabana Mahmood.