Dahpne Woodhouse from Welshpool has been given a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Years Honours for her 'services to culture and history in Powys'.

Mrs Woodhouse is an 88 year old librarian who has been at the heart of the local community for decades and is a key member of a number of clubs in the community.

Most notably, Mrs Woodhouse is the vice-president of the Powyland Club/Clwb Powysland and the Welshpool Music Club.

The Powysland Club is the historical society for the county of Montgomeryshire, and was founded in 1867. The club supports an active programme of public lectures and excursions, publishes its own annual journal and maintains a library in Welshpool.

Robert Robinson, the town clerk of Welshpool Town Council, said that it is great to have someone from the town recognised for all their hard work. "Daphne has been a bit of a librarian for many many years. To have someone recognised for that amount of work is honourable," he said.

Mr Robinson said: "It's nice to see someone getting an award who is not seen on TV; a star or a politician in the public eye.

"She's someone who quietly works away in the background and does an amazing job.

"She's an absolute star."

Susan Blower said: "Lovely to see people committed and devoted to their community being honoured like this. Well done."

Cathy Beech said: "Congratulations Daphne, what a wonderful way to be recognised. I hope you celebrate in style."