An Island stalwart says she is “overwhelmed” after being named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Cathie Lewis will be a recipient of a British Empire Medal in recognition of her services to the community, it was announced last week.

She was put forward for the honour by her daughter Elizabeth Stickings, an application which began two years ago and received ringing endorsements from Islanders.

The news came as a complete surprise to the mother-of-three, grandmother-of-six and great-grandmother-of-one.

She said: “It is quite unbelievable. I had been out and when I came home my husband John said there was a letter for me from the Cabinet Office.

“I thought well, why has the Cabinet Office written to me? I opened the letter and I just couldn’t believe it.

“It’s overwhelming because I don’t think I deserve it.

“I just feel so honoured. What I’ve done, I’ve just done because it’s in my nature to do it.”

Mrs Lewis runs a 400-acre Holm Place Farm in Queenborough Road, Halfway, with her husband, John Lewis, where the Donkey Derby was held for many years.

In 1987, she set up Holm Place Anglers to help disabled children and young people practice fishing and still supports the club today.

The 72-year-old has been running the Baptist Church Parent and Toddler Group for the past 20 years to provide an opportunity for families and children to socialise in Halfway.

“It’s overwhelming because I don’t think I deserve it" - Cathie Lewis

She held several positions at St Peter’s Church, Halfway, over the years including treasurer and secretary as well as being part of the worship team.

Mrs Lewis is secretary of the Cancer Research Sheppey Committee – a cause close to her heart as she has been in remission from bowel cancer for six years.

She has also been president of Holm and Danley WI five times during her 30-year attendance.

She will be attending an investiture ceremony where she will be presented with her medal by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Viscount De L’Isle, and she has been invited to a gathering at Buckingham Palace next year.