A woman who dedicated her time to helping disadvantaged young people says she feels “blessed beyond measure” to be recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Judith Monk has spent more than 40 years working for Hastings and Rother YMCA.

Now she has been honoured with the British Empire medal in recognition of her efforts.

Judith, from Hastings, said: “I am thrilled and honoured to have been awarded the British Empire Medal.

“I believe it to be in regard to my voluntary service with the Hastings and Rother YMCA, where I am currently the chair of the board, but have volunteered here in other capacities for the past 41 years this October.

Read more on the King's Birthday Honours:

“This youth-focused charity is an absolute gem and I'm privileged to work as part of a dedicated and supportive team of both staff and volunteers to provide a healthy start in life to our local young people.

“Having our charity receive the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service last year and now this, I feel blessed beyond measure.”

YMCA is a youth-based charity who help young people across the country including with housing, educational support and health and wellbeing activities.

The service has helped over 65 million people internationally since forming in 1844.