LIBBY Capstick's long service to her village is to be rewarded with a rare honour - she is to receive the freedom of the parish.

Only a handful of parish councils have ever bestowed the accolade on one of their residents, but Libby's 34-year service to the parish council at Nawton, near Helmsley, has earned her the award on her retirement.

Recovering from a broken leg at her home at East House, Nawton, Libby is a stalwart of village life.

For 17 years she was an information assistant at the North York Moors National Park visitor centre at Sutton Bank and a long time secretary of Beckett Tennis Club and Beckett Recreation Club. She is still a chorister at St Gregory's Minster, Kirkdale.

Libby served in the Wrens as a meteorological observer before joining the Forestry Commission at Helmsley.

"I am delighted to be getting the freedom of the parish - it's a wonderful honour."

Residents will be packing the local Rose and Crown pub next Wednesday night for the ceremony and celebration.