THE founder of the Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice, Sheila Evans, has been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours list for her charitable work.

Mrs Evans, 68, from Blaisdon, was the driving force behind the hospice, first mooted in 1999, and today it helps hundreds of people with life-limiting conditions every year. She is currently the organisation's president and is closely involved in its work from day to day.

She told the Review that the honour was a "tribute to a great team – and a wonderful recognition for them."

For an initial two years the hospice operated at the Dilke Hospital and moved to its current Coleford premises in 2004.

"In our first year we helped just 28 patients and in the past year the number was more than 450," she said. It was "a priviledge" to help people by letting them and their families know that there was support for them in surroundings they could relate to. It would not have happened without the work of the many, many other people involved.

On the list also is Olympic equestrian hero Charlotte Dujardin, who has been awarded an OBE.

Edward Hayward of Chepstow received an OBE for his services to businesses and charities in Wales.

Mr Hayward is a director of Chepstow Plant International based in Caldicot and is also chairman of the Noah's Ark Appeal.

The appeal raises money for the Children's Hospital in Wales at the University of Wales Hospital in Cardiff.

Paul Newman of Ross-on-Wye received an OBE for his services to charitable organisations in the UK.

Wendy Price of Ross was awarded the British Empire Medal for her services to children, young people and families.

Mrs Price is manager and supervisor at Llangrove Leapfrogs childcare and a Girl Guide leader in Ross.