Steeple Morden's long-serving former postmistress has been awarded the British Empire Medal for her services to the community and voluntary work.

Tricia Covington served as village postmistress for 36 years, and has also volunteered for the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal, as well as running an art class.

She retired in January, and has seen her retirement as an opportunity to do even more voluntary work in her community.

Last year, Tricia was busy with the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in the village, and this year she helped with the Coronation celebrations.

Tricia, who is now 70, moved the Post Office and small shop into the nearby family-run car repair garage in the village, which was started by her parents Barbara and Peter Prothero in 1955, and which still operates today.

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She said: "I’ve loved my job as postmistress 99.9 per cent of the time. Not many people have had that level of job satisfaction.

"I’m a people person. The best thing about the role is the people that you meet. I’ve got to know people very well. I am delighted to have received this recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours."

Post Office Group chief retail officer Martin Roberts praised Tricia and added that the Royal recognition is "well deserved".