THE work of a long-serving tenant and board director of Wirral housing association Magenta Living has been recognised in the Queen's birthday honour's list.

Muriel Wilkinson was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to housing having been officially involved with the company since 2005.

Muriel, who was officially appointed to the Magenta Living Board in April 2013, said: "I was absolutely delighted when I heard that I'd been awarded."

Muriel has many years experience of voluntary work in various communities and has also run her own business for many years.

She is still an active member in her neighbourhood providing support and advice when needed to fellow tenants and residents.

Muriel still arranges luncheon clubs and charity events where she lives, providing an opportunity for the community to come together.

Muriel is chair of Wirral Residents Umbrella Association, which was set up in September 2010.

It is an independent group of Magenta Living tenants and residents representing the neighbourhoods where they live.

By chairing this group, it provides an opportunity for Muriel to have real knowledge and insight into the neighbourhood activities and provides a voice for those involved direct to Magenta Living's Board.

Reflecting on British Empire Medal her honour, Muriel said: "I'm really proud of what I've achieved and honoured to have been recognised in this way.

"Volunteering and helping people is what I love doing and I’ll keep going until I have to retire.

"Working with Magenta Living is very fulfilling and I’m so glad that I’m able to contribute in some way.”

Muriel has recently been instrumental in helping develop and set up the Magenta Communities Committee.

Magenta Communities oversees the delivery of activities which create social value in local neighbourhoods, something about which Muriel is very passionate.

Brian Simpson, Magenta Living's chief executive said: "I'm so pleased that Muriel has been recognised for her services to housing in the Queen's Birthday Honour's list.

"This is such a testament to Muriel's service not only to Magenta Living but to her volunteering and community work too.

"Muriel is a fundamental part of our Board structure and continues to support our work within the neighbourhoods that we serve in."