A woman who has served as a volunteer for more than 50 years was awarded a British Empire Medal.

Lesley Turner, who lived in Harrow for around 40 years before moving to High Wycombe, received her British Empire Medal this month for her voluntary work.

The 61-year-old was nominated in November by a friend for her 53 years of service to the Church Lads' and Church Girls' Brigade based in Alperton, Wembley, where she jointly runs the group with Elaine Mayaski.

She said: “I was quite amazed to have even been nominated. You do a job on a voluntary basis because you enjoy it, never expecting an award and suddenly you get this accolade.

“Receiving the first letter was fantastic, then the next big excitement was when the list of nominations was published and then of course I went to receive the award, which was kind of formal but still very welcoming.

“Everyone was so lovely, the lord lieutenants and all the councillors. They were all so welcoming and really made it a special day."

The medal was presented by Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher at High Wycombe Council Chambers on April 7, and Ms Turner is now looking forward to the Royal Garden Party in May.

Despite more than 50 years with the brigade, she plans to continue her work for a few more years.

She added: “You never expect the reward but it makes you so much more determined to continue your work when you do.

“I still do it and still enjoy it, as it is only half an hour from my home and I still love doing it.

“The girls make it worthwhile, they’re absolutely brilliant.”