FORMER principal at Birkenhead Sixth Form College Kathryn Podmore has been awarded a MBE in the New Year’s Honours list for 2018.

Working in the education sector for 35 years, the now chief executive of Wirral Academy Trust has received her award for services to education.

She told the Globe: “It was an incredible surprise and something that I had never imagined could have been awarded to me.

"I am deeply honoured and extremely proud to have been nominated for this prestigious accolade.

"I have been very privileged to have held leadership positions in the world of education.

"It has been an amazing journey and wonderful to see so many students irrespective of their circumstances show so much determination and achieve highly.

"Throughout my career I have been very fortunate to have worked with so many incredible young people and inspirational colleagues.

"Working in education is a team effort and I shall always be grateful for all the support that I have received.

"I hope that I have been able to make a small contribution for the benefit of young people within the communities that I have worked.”

Daphne Amlot has received a MBE for her voluntary service to the community in Wirral.

Karen Jones, from Neston, has been awarded a MBE for services to children with life limiting illnesses in the North West and North Wales.

Julie Salmon, from Greasby has received her MBE honour for her services to charitable fundraising and the community.