A HEREFORDSHIRE heroine who brought millions of pounds of recovery money to the county in the wake of the foot and mouth epidemic has been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Clare Wichbold, 39, produced a long-term recovery programme, adopted by the Herefordshire Partnership, and will be presented with the MBE for her services to rural Herefordshire.

Clare, a regeneration officer, runs a smallholding with her husband near Longtown in the Golden Valley. She was notified about her award last month but had to remain tight-lipped until the formal announcement at the weekend.

Under wraps

"I've had to keep it under wraps for about six weeks - I couldn't even tell my mother! I squealed with excitement when I opened the envelope. I was delighted and excited and completely shocked because I didn't know I was nominated," said Clare.

She added: "It's a marvellous accolade but it's not just about me. This award is testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone who has been involved in helping Herefordshire get back on its feet."

Clare was in the driving seat of the recovery strategy. Its projects included a regional rural shows promotion scheme, carrying out risk assessments for re-opening public rights of way, tourist attractions and farmers' markets, support for tourism and rural businesses and the Herefordshire Walking Festival.

Clare also won recognition for her recovery plan last year when she received the coveted Local Government Trophy in the Public Servants of the Year Award 2002.