YOUNG at heart 97-year-old Madge Covey has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Mrs Covey has been a stalwart of the community in Wellington for years and shows few signs of wanting to slow up.

Her service to the town includes making dozens of meals three times a week for the Luncheon Club; contributing to the annual carnival; acting as standard bearer for the Royal British Legion into her late 80s; and serving as chairman and president of the women's section of the Wellington branch of the RBL.

She is still involved in helping organisations such as the parish church, the town museum, making poppies for Remembrance and visiting the sick.

She still finds time with all her commitments to tend her garden.

Mrs Covey, who lost her husband more than 40 years ago, said: "I'm full of joy at the award.

"It's also for my helpers. I couldn't have done a lot of things without them.

"My family are so thrilled for me. They are very supportive."

Mrs Covey celebrated her honour with a party at Brazz, in Taunton, on Saturday.

She said: "It was a relief to let everyone know as I'd had to keep it quiet since I was told in June.

"I think my son found it harder than me not to tell everybody."