CILLA Makinson says her family and friends will be thrilled when they learn today that she is to receive the MBE.

The 76-year-old has been honoured by the Queen for her services to the community in West Auckland, St Helen Auckland and Tindale Crossing, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Over the years, she has raised thousands for churches and community causes.

She said: "I like helping people. It is what I do and I do it because I enjoy doing it.

"I have seen the time when I would stand and bake pies at 4am to sell to raise money."

Born in West Auckland, Cilla won the hearts of many small communities while working as a bus conductress in the days when the Eden bus company carried passengers throughout the region.

After being made redundant, she worked for Community Aid, then became a lifeline to many elderly people as a relief warden in St Helen Auckland, where she lives.

She is still actively involved in the community, despite losing her sight seven years ago.

She is currently raising money by selling raffle tickets for the village's carnival.

She and a friend run a coffee morning on Tuesdays in St Helen Community Centre and any money raised helps to pay for day trips for the members.

She said: "I knew there was talk of me being nominated for an MBE but I never thought I would get it. For me, it is about helping people. I am not one to enjoy praise and glory.

"Obviously, I am pleased, but I will always be just an ordinary girl from West Auckland. You could say I am the Eden bus conductress done good!"

Meanwhile, on hearing the news of her OBE for services to social housing, Tees Valley Housing Group chief executive Alison Thain said: "I was delighted by the news of being made an OBE. It was a huge surprise, but very exciting.

"It is very heartening that people who work in the important and demanding social housing sector are recognised and that the issues we face receive a higher profile as a result."