A LOCAL teacher got the surprise of her life when she was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list last week.

Mrs Pamela Wilson of Balcombe Close, Brandlesholme, Bury, first heard the news when she was contacted by the Press.

"I was absolutely staggered," said Mrs Wilson, 64, "It came as a complete surprise. I am delighted but I don't think it has sunk in yet."

Mrs Wilson was nominated by the local education authority for her outstanding contribution to her profession. She was only told of her nomination six weeks ago but was forced to keep it a secret.

"I couldn't tell anyone that I had been nominated but I really did not expect anything to come from it."

Mrs Wilson, who is now retired, dedicated more than 44 years of her working life to education. She worked in various local schools and spent 21 years at Lowercroft CP school in Bury.

"We are all thrilled," said Mrs Sue Law, her friend and colleague at Lowercroft CP. "She was a very dedicated teacher, giving everything she had to her job. The children and staff all loved her and she thoroughly deserves her MBE."

Mrs Wilson said her friends and family were surprised but over the moon.

"Everyone was delighted. It is such a special honour and I think it is so important that education has been recognised.

"A great many people work very very hard in this profession and never receive any recognition for their work. I am one of the lucky ones and that is very gratifying," she added.

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