LEIGH-BORN journalist Lynda Lee-Potter has been awarded an OBE in the Queen's New Year's Honours List.

The Daily Mail columnist - sometimes known as "The First lady of Fleet Street" - is recognised for her work in journalism and charities.

Lynda, whose grandfather ran a pub in the area, spent her early life in the streets of industrial Leigh, yearning for a life on the stage.

She planned to become an actress, went to drama school and appeared in repertory.

She lived for two years in Aden and turned to newspapers, becoming editor of the Aden Chronicle. In 1967 she return to England and joined the Mail.

Married to distinguished haematologist Jeremy Lee-Potter, she has two daughters and a son - all journalists - and now lives in Dorset. In her spare time she is an active worker for the NSPCC and also helps other charities, especially those involving children.

Lynda said she "amazed and touched" at her award. "I really can't really believe it."

And an MBE has been awarded to Leigh businessman Albert Waterfield, 66, former managing director and chairman of Waterfield's Bakery in Manchester Road.

He has been handed a 'gong' for his services to training local people through his connection as a board member with Wigan based Metrotec.

His son Richard, who took over the reins at Waterfield's when Albert retired last year, said: "The whole family are delighted with dad's award. We believe he should have been given one years ago!"

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