ALVA woman Anne Spruce has received the British Empire Medal, following her nomination in the New Year's Honours List.

The award was issued in recognition for her services to young people in the Wee County and was presented by Lt. Col. Johnny Stewart, Lord-Lieutenant of Clackmannanshire, at a special ceremony held at Arndean on Tuesday.

The official government citation says that Mrs Spruce “has always had a passionate belief in the development of young people and, as a well-respected teacher of early years’ primary children in Alva, has positively influenced the lives of over 500 children, ensuring that they got the best possible start in their education”.

It cites her many "voluntary roles including 30 years of service to the Guides and 35 years of service to the Scout movement".

She has also been instrumental in the running of Alva Community Council, where she serves as treasurer.

The ceremony and tea party was attended by around 25 of Mrs Spruce’s family and friends .

After the presentation, Mrs Spruce said: "I am deeply honoured by this award. All I have done is try to contribute to the community of which I feel very much a part."