A WOMAN from Painswick has been awarded an MBE for her excellent charity work.

Frances Watson, 75, works for Building Circles a charity which works to transform lives of adults with learning disabilities.

The charity has been running for 12 years.

Frances has played a key role, helping with hobby workshops and helping to provide a better quality of life for adults with learning disabilities.

She was put forward for the award by the organisations CEO Lisa Narracott.

Frances was surprised when she received the letter and insists the recognition should be for the entire team.

"I thought I'd got a parking fine before I opened it," Frances said.

"I was pretty amazed. There are a lot of people who do great things but I'm very grateful.

"Lisa and the team have done amazing things.

"People with learning disabilities are very vulnerable and they are often isolated members of society so we are needed."

Frances was also keen to dedicate her award to two of the other co-founders. Andy Rozwadowski and Brian Worth, who has since passed away.

Social services are no longer funding the voluntary section and the charity are in need of more help.

For more information about donating or volunteering visit buildingcirclesglos.org.uk.