FOSTER carers John and Shirley Hanson have been to London to receive their MBEs for commitment to children in the community.

The Ivington couple, who have fostered 300 children over 39 years, received their medals at the ceremony in Windsor Castle from the Queen herself.

“We feel extremely privileged to have been honoured by the Queen,” said John.

“The whole visit was so special and we were thrilled when we were told that her majesty would present our awards.”

Shirley added: “This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, magical, and made more so by being able to take our daughter Jo and sons David and Jonnie.”

Last week’s trip was not the first time the couple had mixed with royalty.

In 2014 they were invited by the Herefordshire Lord Lieutenant, Lady Darnley, to attend The Queen’s garden party in London.

That trip was in recognition of Mr Hanson’s involvement at Ivington Primary School for more than four decades and of the couple’s fostering which later resulted in the the MBE honours.