A long-serving volunteer in Rhayader, who has been awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours, said she does so because she cares passionately about the town.
Barbara Lawrence is well known throughout the Radnorshire town for her contribution and commitment to several voluntary organisations in which she has been involved over the years.
The New Year’s Honour was a real surprise to Barbara.
“I felt sick for two days after opening the letter,” she said. “It was beyond my comprehension and I couldn’t come to terms with it. I was just so overwhelmed.
“It is hard to believe that someone like me from a small town like Rhayader can be recognised in this way, but I am absolutely delighted.”
The 66-year-old has been a volunteer at the Luncheon Club for 32 years. It provides a hot meal and the chance for elderly residents to socialise, as well as providing many social activities throughout the year.
Barbara also gives her time to Rhayader 2000, the organisation tasked with promoting the town and creating a better environment for those who live and work in Rhayader and its many visitors. She was instrumental in the production of the town guide.
Barbara still somehow manages to give even more of her time helping to organise Rhayader Running Club’s calendar of events, including the renowned Rhayader 20-mile Road Race, and even acts as timekeeper and marshall.
Barbara was originally from the Elan Valley and when she married her husband Bryan Lawrence they moved to East Street, where they have lived for 30 years in different properties, including running a guest house for three decades.
Rhayader town councillors recognised her efforts in the town in 2009 when she was voted Citizen of the Year.
“It is a great honour to be recognised with the MBE. I care about Rhayader passionately,” she said. “There is a real sense of community here which makes Rhayader very special.”