A WOMAN with children’s best interests at heart has been awarded for her services to young people.
Mary Hart, who has worked and lived in Coventry for most of her life, was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her efforts in supporting children for over 30 years.
On receiving the award, she said: “I feel very humbled and privileged to have received this award.”
Mary was nominated by her friend Caroline Hobday, who recognised her hard work while working as the founder member of the charity Activity Club in Spon End.
Caroline said: “Mary’s commitment, passion and enthusiasm is a wonderful example to us all.
“I know that her work has been well recognised over the years and I am very pleased to have nominated her.
“I want to congratulate her on all that she has achieved and for all those people that she has helped in so many different ways.”
Mary initially set up the Activity Club under the name Adventure Club at the local community centre.
Since then, she has raised funds and trains parents and young people in volunteering for sports and other training opportunities – allowing young people to gain qualifications in sport leadership courses.
In addition to keeping track of the charity’s administration, Mary and her husband Richard have fostered in Coventry for over 20 years – giving some of the most deprived young people a safe place to live and unconditional levels of support.
The BEM awardee was one of ten people to be awarded the medal in Warwickshire, which is the highest number of people awarded in the region.
She received the medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, Timothy Cox, at a special event at the Judges House in Warwick earlier last month (May).
To celebrate her success Mary went along with her friend Caroline to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Mary said: “The day at Buckingham Palace was amazing, I met so many people who were kind and interested in my stories.
“I had a brilliant day out and will remember it for years to come.”
