A BRIDGWATER woman said she was ‘dumbstruck’ when she found out she had been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

Tamsen Wetherall, 53, was awarded a Medal of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) for services to charitable fundraising and Girlguiding in Bridgwater.

When Tamsen was just 24, she set up the Brownies group at St John’s Church in Bridgwater, which is still going strong as it heads into its 30th year.

Tamsen said: “I was absolutely amazed.

“I received a letter from the Cabinet Office and wondered what it was, and when I opened it I was dumbstruck.”

Tamsen started with the Brownies when she was seven years old, and continued through to the guides.

She returned to the Brownies as a helper while working toward her Duke of Edinburgh Award and became a leader.

After having her two children, Tamsen returned to Brownies, but set up a new branch in St John’s Church in Bridgwater.

“Girlguiding means we can get the girls involved in a huge variety of activities and give them opportunities they might not have had otherwise,” Tamsen said.

“We take them on holidays and do lots of day trips - and I must have the gift of the gab because we have had some amazing experiences over the years.

“On one trip to London our group met The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh and Prince Charles, while on another on a whim we were allowed into Downing Street.

“We’ve also been given access to behind the scenes at Horse Guards Parade, and on another trip we were allowed backstage to meet Michael Ball.”

Tamsen said she is still in touch with some of her former Brownies, and is always delighted to hear how they are getting on.

“It is amazing when you hear the girls you knew have grown up to become doctors or teachers,” Mrs Wetherall said.

“I think being in the Girl Guides really helps build confidence and allows them to become strong characters.”

To find out more about the Brownies at St John’s Church call Tamsen on 01278 422215.