A FORMER councillor and chairman of Worcestershire County Council is to be recognised in the Queen's New Year's Honours list.

Mary Drinkwater, who represented the county as councillor for 12 years, will be rewarded for her hard work with an MBE.

During her career, Mary became an advisor to the portfolio holder for adult and community serivces for seven years and served on several scrutiny panels.

Cllr Adrian Hardman, cabinet member with responsibility for adult social care, said: "It is highly momentous that Mary has been recognised royally for her outstanding work within the county, both politically and in the volunteer sector.

"It is a moment of real pride for herself and her family and Worcestershire is very grateful for her service in a wide range of roles.

"Mary was that voice that all councils need, one of quiet reason and, when appropriate, not so quiet."

Mary is also an avid charity fundraiser, having worked as a trustee for St Richard's Hospice for eight years, and also for St Swithun's.

She raised £9,800 for the Arthritis Research Campaign and £3,400 for St Richard's Hospice.

She is currently a governor, and has been for more than 20 years, at Perdiswell School and St Barnabas CE Primary in Worcester.