Hilda Brailsford, 79, has been awarded an MBE for more than 30 years of hard work for the village.

Hilda began her community work in 1976 as part of a campaign for an Ironville youth club that is still going strong today.

She has been a governor at Ironville school for 32 years and also served on the parish council for 20 years.

Mrs Brailsford said: "I was born here and I believe in Ironville. It is a good village and a decent place to live.

"I found out about the award in November when a letter came. I read it once, then I read it again, then I gave it to my daughter in law to read and she said 'yes it is true'.

"I have two daughters and one son and they were the only ones that knew. We have had a job keeping it quiet since November."

As chairman of Ironville and Codnor Park Community Association Hilda has helped to set up various local initiatives including a fresh vegetable sale to promote healthy living among residents. She is also a member of the local walking club.

Hilda said: "I think you have to do these things to keep it all going. I started off with the youth club in 1976 and we are aiming to get a community sports centre through the renaissance project in the future.

"I slipped off a chair and broke my hip last year but it did not stop me. I was up and about in two weeks and delivering news letters around the village.

"It is what I want to do, it is what I am here for."

David Harrison who sits on Ironville Parish Council with Hilda and recently nominated her for a Derbyshire County Council volunteer award said the MBE was thoroughly deserved.

Cllr Harrison said: "This is excellent news and very, very well deserved. Hilda has been on the parish council virtually since its inception and she helps with the church, the school and the regeneration project as well.

"Whenever you want something done you send for Hilda."