A PENSIONER has been appointed OBE for a lifetime of service to the community.
Eurwen Edwards, 89, of Rhyl, described meeting Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace as “a perfect day” as her dedication to community activities was recognised with the prestigious accolade.
Despite her advancing years, Mrs Edwards continues to lead a hectic life, holding positions with numerous organisations as her commitment and knowledge is used to good effect.
Mrs Edwards praised Prince Charles for the effort he went to with each recipient of the insignias as she enjoyed a day to remember.
She said: “He chatted with everyone and took a real interest.”
Mrs Edwards was particularly impressed by the colourful Yeoman of the Guard, the Queen’s bodyguard, who made sure everything went smoothly.
She has previously been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community and received a special lifetime achievement award for her work in the housing and support sector.
She added: “Going to Buckingham Palace was the most wonderful honour. But the honour should also go to all those who have worked alongside me in voluntary community ventures over the years, particularly all at Clwyd Alyn Housing, who continue to make such a difference to communities across North and Mid Wales.”
Mrs Edwards first became interested in helping others when she was a young girl and her father, who died when she was 11, took her to visit people living in a workhouse in St Asaph.
She added: “He insisted that people were equal and had the right to be treated equally. I remember it vividly and it has always stayed with me.”
During the war years Mrs Edwards was involved in looking after evacuees and she went on to work with the WRVS, going on to be a county organiser.
She is today involved in organisations including the Clwyd Alyn Housing Association and Pennaf Housing Group, Denbighshire Voluntary Service Council, the Wales Council for Voluntary Action, Coast Credit Union, the North Wales Resources Centre, Rhyl Shop Mobility, Age Concern North Wales Central and Clwyd Community Chest.