A community champion from Bronington has received a British Empire Medal after being named in the New Year Honours list for her unwavering dedication to help her peers.

Olive Arnold, who has lived in Bronington, near Whitchurch all her life, has been awarded a BEM for her for services to her community.

She has also attended the Buckingham Palace Garden Party for the Coronation after she was nominated for helping many elderly people within the village over a number of years.

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Mrs Arnold said: “I received the letter in November, and then sent over the form that I will gratefully accept.

“I am very thrilled for the nomination.”

She has dedicated her spare time in helping the people of Bronington with various tasks that they couldn’t complete themselves. 

These included doing grocery, helping them get to their appointments, helping them get their pension and anything people might need.

“I helped them do lots of things”, Mrs Arnold explained, “and I will help them for as long as I can”.

She added that she is a “big Bronington fan” and highlighted that she loves living there.

Mrs Arnold said: “If you take a bit you have to give a bit – and if you can help someone you should.”

She is planning on taking her daughter with her to the ceremonies, which are set to take place next year.

The King’s New Year Honours list includes recipients who have made exceptional contributions to their local communities and the country as a whole. 

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The Prime Minister is committed to ensuring that honours are awarded to people across the whole of the UK, so that the honours system captures and celebrates the fantastic contribution of people from throughout the country.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “The New Year’s Honours list recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion. 

“To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”