Kingsbridge’s Angela Chant has been honoured by the Queen, receiving a British Empire Medal for services to young people in the South Hams area.

Mrs Chant is the project director of Spiritulized, a Christian outreach group for young people in Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas. She was presented with her award by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon - the Queen’s representative in the county.

The Investiture took place at County Hall, Exeter, and saw eight men and women from across Devon receiving their awards, after being named in the New Year’s Honours List.

The British Empire Medal is awarded for “meritorious service worthy of recognition by the Crown”. It marks an achievement or contribution of a very ’hands-on’ service to their community. This might take the form of sustained commitment in support of a charitable organisation, a voluntary activity or innovative work that has had a positive impact in the community.

David Fursdon Esq, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, said: “It has been a real pleasure to acknowledge and recognise the commitment of those people in Devon who have been honoured for being true community champions.

“All the men and women awarded their British Empire Medals today were honoured for their work in different areas but all share an unwavering commitment to improving their community through voluntary work or through their support of a charitable cause.

“Through hard work and dedication they have all changed their communities for the better and I congratulate all of them, they should be very proud of their achievements.”